B2nounsocietyenvironment
US/ˈfæm.ɪn/
UK/ˈfæm.ɪn/
a time when a large number of people in an area have too little food and many die
In context
A terrible famine killed thousands of people after the crops failed.
Aid agencies warn that the region is on the brink of famine.
Climate change may cause more droughts and famines in the future.
Words that go with famine
adjective + noun
- severe famineA severe famine followed two years of failed harvests.
- widespread famineWidespread famine followed two years of drought.
verb + preposition
- die of famineThousands of people died of famine before help arrived.
noun + noun
- famine reliefThe charity raised money for famine relief.
- famine and droughtFamine and drought hit the country at the same time.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
a famine of foodCorrect: a famine
Incorrect:
suffer from famine hungerCorrect: suffer from famine