A severe shortage of food over a large area, causing widespread hunger and often death.
From Middle French “famine,” from Latin “fames” meaning “hunger” or “starvation.” The English form has been used for centuries to describe large‑scale hunger crises.
Famine isn’t just about there not being enough food; it’s often about food not reaching the people who need it because of war, politics, or poverty. Humanity has always feared “fames”—deep hunger—as one of its most basic threats.
Famines have had gendered impacts, with women and girls often facing disproportionate nutritional deprivation, exploitation, and caregiving burdens. Historical accounts sometimes underreport these gender-specific effects.
When describing famine, acknowledge that impacts can differ by gender, especially in caregiving, access to aid, and vulnerability to violence.
["severe food shortage","widespread hunger"]
Highlight the work of women organizers, health workers, and community leaders who respond to famines, often with limited recognition.
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