poor
UK[pɔː(r)]US[pʊr]
adj
having very little money; not having enough money for basic needs
adj
of a low quality or standard; not good
adj
deserving sympathy; unfortunate
Etymology
The word 'poor' entered English in the late 12th century from the Old French 'povre', which itself descended from the Latin 'pauper', meaning 'poor, not wealthy'. The Latin term is a compound of 'pau-' (little) and 'par-' (to produce, bring forth), suggesting a literal sense of 'producing little'. This core idea of deficiency or lack traveled through French into English, where it broadened from its original financial meaning to encompass general low quality and a state deserving of pity. The modern spelling with 'oo' became standardized in the 16th century.
Analysis
The word 'poor' is a simplex word derived from a single, indivisible root.
Examples
The charity provides food and shelter for poor families.
The soil in this region is poor and not suitable for farming.
The poor dog was abandoned by its owners.