-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
starvation
noun
star·va·tion
stär-ˈvā-shən
Examples of starvation in a Sentence
The famine brought mass starvation.
Millions of people face starvation every day.
Recent Examples on the Web
Beyond that, according to the researchers, these plastics, when exposed to sun or heavy force — like crashing waves — can release harmful chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenol A or be ingested by marine wildlife, which can lead to starvation and death.
—
Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 14 Feb. 2025
The baby cried incessantly, refusing to latch or nurse because Shauna, weakened by starvation, was unable to produce enough milk to nourish him.
—
Michaela Zee, Variety, 13 Feb. 2025
Recently released Palestinian prisoners have returned from Israeli detention with signs of physical abuse and starvation, and have alleged abuse and torture.
—
Sophie Tanno and Mick Krever, CNN, 8 Feb. 2025
Earlier, the administration had issued a freeze on foreign assistance, leading to the suspension of numerous programs designed to combat starvation, provide education, and tackle epidemics.
—
Kristan Hawkins, Newsweek, 7 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for starvation 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Word History
First Known Use
1762, in the meaning defined at sense 2
Phrases Containing starvation
Dictionary Entries Near starvation
Cite this Entry
“Starvation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/starvation. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
starvation
noun
star·va·tion
stär-ˈvā-shən
: the act or an instance of starving : the state of being starved
Medical Definition
starvation
noun
star·va·tion
stär-ˈvā-shən
More from Merriam-Webster on starvation
Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for starvation
Nglish: Translation of starvation for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about starvation
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share