Pronunciation: [mˈiːɡənəs] (IPA) 
The word "meagreness" is spelled with a "g" between the "e" and the "n," pronounced as [ˈmiːɡrənəs]. This is because the word derives from the Old French word "meagre" with a similar pronunciation. The addition of the suffix "-ness" denotes the quality or state of being meagre. The word is commonly used to describe something that is lacking in quantity or quality, such as meagreness of food or meagreness of options.
Meagreness is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being meagre, which in turn means lacking in quantity, quality, or substance; inadequate; scanty; deficient. It can describe something that is insufficient, limited, or lacking in a particular aspect.
When used to describe a person's physical appearance, meagreness refers to a gaunt and thin physique, often indicating malnourishment or a lack of proper sustenance. In this context, it suggests a person's appearance portrays a sense of frailty, fragility, and weakness.
In a broader sense, meagreness may also be used to characterize an object, resource, or situation that is insufficient or deficient in fulfilling its intended purpose. For instance, it can describe a meagre income or salary, which is barely enough to cover basic necessities and leaves little room for additional expenses. Similarly, meagreness may pertain to the thinness or scarcity of food, a meagre harvest or crop that yields a low output, or a business venture with meagre profit margins.
Overall, meagreness evokes the notion of scarcity, insufficiency, or depletion, implying a sense of lack or inadequacy in various aspects of life, such as physical appearance, resources, or achievements.
Leanness; poorness; scantiness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The etymology of the word "meagreness" traces back to the Old French word "meagre" (later spelled "maigre"), meaning thin or lean. This Old French term was derived from the Latin word "macrōs" or "mācer" - both meaning lean or thin. Over time, "meagre" evolved into "meagreness" in English, retaining its core meaning of lacking in quantity or substance.
