abject

Pronunciation

Adjective B1 Intermediate

So severe or extreme that it leaves no dignity or hope, often used to describe poverty, failure, or misery.

"The refugees were living in abject poverty, without clean water or shelter."

Synonyms and antonyms

utter wretched

"Abject" almost always modifies negative nouns like poverty, failure, or apology.

Which word fits the gap? "The refugees were living in _____ poverty, without clean water or shelter."

Answer: abject

In your own words, what does "abject" mean?

So severe or extreme that it leaves no dignity or hope, often used to describe poverty, failure, or misery.