Definition

A condition where a person's body does not get enough nutrients because they do not eat enough food or their body cannot absorb nutrients properly.

Example

Many children in developing countries suffer from undernutrition due to food scarcity.

Conversation

I read an article about undernutrition in some parts of the world.

That sounds really concerning. What did it say?

It mentioned how many kids are affected by undernutrition due to lack of food.

It's heartbreaking to think about. We should do something to help.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Undernutrition is formed from "under-" (meaning below or insufficient) and "nutrition" (from Latin "nutritio", meaning nourishment or feeding). The word describes a state of having insufficient nourishment or nutrients.

Memory Tip

Think of 'under' meaning below or insufficient, and 'nutrition' referring to nourishment — this helps you remember that undernutrition means not getting enough nourishment.

Visually Confused Words