Definition of INDIGENCE

indigence

Plural: indigences

Noun

  • a state of extreme poverty or destitution
    • "their indigence appalled him"
  • Extreme poverty or destitution.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English indigence, late 14th century, from Old French indigence (13th century), from Latin indigentia, from indigentem, form of indigēre (“to need”), from indu (“in, within”) + egēre (“be in need, want”).
Only relation to antonym affluence is common Latinate suffix + -ence.

Antonyms

affluence

Scrabble Score: 13

indigence: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
indigence: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
indigence: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 17

indigence: valid Words With Friends Word