Starve

to suffer or cause to suffer extreme hunger; to die or cause to die from a lack of food. This term can also denote a state of deprivation or lack, where an entity or individual does not have enough resources to thrive or survive. Starving can result from famine, food scarcity, or neglect, and is often used metaphorically to describe intense desire or craving for something beyond food.

Starve meaning with examples

• During the severe drought, many families in the region started to starve as crops failed and food supplies dwindled. Efforts by local governments to provide aid were hampered by the extreme conditions, leaving many without any means to sustain themselves. The sight of empty pantries and hungry children was a heartbreaking reminder of the plight caused by climate change.
• After years of economic mismanagement, the country faced a crisis where millions began to starve. International organizations called for urgent humanitarian assistance, with reports of malnutrition and hunger-related diseases on the rise. As communities struggled to find food, volunteers rallied to distribute supplies, but the overwhelming need highlighted a systemic problem that required a long-term solution.
• In the animal kingdom, predators can leave their prey in a vulnerable situation where they may starve if food sources are depleted. This natural cycle maintains balance within ecosystems, but human intervention, such as habitat destruction, can disrupt this balance. Conservationists argue that protecting wildlife is essential to prevent starvation among various species and to uphold biodiversity.
• Metaphorically, one can 'starve' for attention when feeling neglected in a social setting. For instance, a child who isn't receiving enough emotional support from their parents may feel isolated and unvalued. This type of starvation can have long-lasting psychological effects, prompting individuals to seek validation through various means, potentially leading to unhealthy behaviors.