as in shortage
a falling short of an essential or desirable amount or number
there's a famine of good general practitioners in many rural areas
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Recent Examples of famine
It’s been feast or famine with the Mets’ bats this season, and the problems hitting with runners in scoring position haven’t gone away.
—
Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 17 July 2025
Experts say hunger is widespread among Gaza's 2 million Palestinians and that Israel's blockade and military offensive have put them at risk of famine.
—arkansasonline.com, 12 July 2025
The United Nations estimates that most of Gaza's population has been displaced, with nearly half a million people facing famine in the coming months.
—USA Today, 9 July 2025
This year also marks the 40th anniversary of Live Aid, the global benefit concert organized by Bob Geldof to raise money for famine relief in Ethiopia that featured dozens of musicians in London and Philadelphia simultaneously.
—Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 14 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for famine
Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 17 July 2025
Experts say hunger is widespread among Gaza's 2 million Palestinians and that Israel's blockade and military offensive have put them at risk of famine.
—arkansasonline.com, 12 July 2025
The United Nations estimates that most of Gaza's population has been displaced, with nearly half a million people facing famine in the coming months.
—USA Today, 9 July 2025
This year also marks the 40th anniversary of Live Aid, the global benefit concert organized by Bob Geldof to raise money for famine relief in Ethiopia that featured dozens of musicians in London and Philadelphia simultaneously.
—Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 14 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for famine
Recent Examples of Synonyms for famine
Noun
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The initiative will create long-term parking or expand existing lots, aiming to combat the shortage of safe and accessible truck parking, according to a news release.—
Annie Goldman,
The Enquirer,
31 July 2025
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It was further reported that The King’s Foundation brought in a specialist human resources consultancy, which upheld claims about staff shortages, inadequate management practices and low pay.—
Janine Henni,
People.com,
31 July 2025
Noun
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Both actors, who have been previously married to other celebrities, have indicated a lack of interest in dating.—
KiMi Robinson,
USA Today,
24 July 2025
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Whether due to inadequate service, lack of knowledge and experience, or scheduling conflicts, transitioning to a planner who aligns better with your needs can provide the personalized and sophisticated support necessary for achieving your financial goals.—
Cicely Jones,
Forbes.com,
24 July 2025
Noun
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These drought tolerant perennials may get 3 feet tall and some will slowly spread.—
Pamm Cooper,
Hartford Courant,
26 July 2025
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Agricultural experts say drought over the last few years in the Plains and Upper Midwest has dried up the supply of grass for cattle.—
Evie Steele,
NBC news,
23 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Famine.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/famine. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.
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