Malnourished - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

'Malnourished' means that someone isn't getting enough of the right nutrients. It's not just about calories; it's about vitamins, minerals, and everything else your body needs to function. Imagine your phone constantly running on low battery because the charger is broken. It is a more severe state than just being hungry. It impacts growth, energy levels, and overall health. It can affect both physical and mental well-being.

Etymology

The word 'malnourished' comes from combining the prefix 'mal-,' meaning 'bad' or 'poor,' with 'nourished,' which means 'fed' or 'provided with nutrients.' 'Nourish' comes from the Latin word 'nutrire,' meaning 'to feed' or 'to cherish.' So, 'malnourished' literally means 'badly nourished' or 'poorly fed.'

Related Words

Examples

• "The doctor was concerned that the teenager's restrictive diet was making her malnourished."
• "The aid workers struggled to provide adequate food for the malnourished children in the refugee camp."
• "Even in developed countries, people can become malnourished due to poor dietary choices."
• "Symptoms of being malnourished include fatigue, weakened immunity, and stunted growth."

Encouragement

Use 'malnourished' when you want to emphasize a severe lack of proper nutrition. It's a powerful word that highlights the importance of a balanced diet. 💪 Keep learning and stay healthy! 🍎

Learn More

📖 Learn more on Wikipedia