underprivileged

[ uhn-der-priv-uh-lijd, -priv-lijd ]

adjective

1. denied the enjoyment of the normal privileges or rights of a society because of low economic and social status.

   Synonyms: deprived, disadvantaged

underprivileged

/ ˌʌndəˈprɪvɪlɪdʒd /

adjective

1. lacking the rights and advantages of other members of society; deprived

Word History and Origins

Origin of underprivileged¹

First recorded in 1920–25; under- + privileged

Example Sentences

“Instead of advocating for wildlands, they’re advocating for access for underprivileged communities, expanding urban parks, focusing on human desires and needs,” said Richard Halsey, 69, of San Diego, who left the Sierra Club in 2022 after more than five decades of involvement.

From Los Angeles Times

“To me, it’s an honor and privilege to work so closely with an organization that has the same passion and care for foster care and underprivileged kids,” Biles told The Times in a phone interview before the event.

From Los Angeles Times

His lifelong dedication to helping underprivileged and at-risk children was at least as responsible for his enshrinement and for the many humanitarian awards he received.

From Los Angeles Times

The legislation, which was endorsed by several celebrity chefs including José Andrés, allows the Federal government to pay 100% of the cost to states and localities so that they can partner with restaurants and nonprofits to prepare nutritious meals for vulnerable populations, such as seniors and underprivileged children.

From Salon

In a 2017 essay in the New York Times, Vance wrote about identifying parts of himself in former Presidents Clinton and Obama, who also grew up in underprivileged environments, largely raised by their grandparents.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• depressed
• deprived
• destitute
• disadvantaged
• impoverished
• indigent
• needy