1. extreme scarcity of food affecting large numbers of people over a wide area
Usage: plural of famine

Examples

• Historical famines have killed millions of people worldwide.
• The region has experienced several devastating famines in the past century.
• Climate change may increase the frequency of famines in vulnerable areas.
• International aid organizations work to prevent famines through early warning systems.
• The Irish potato famines of the 1840s forced many people to emigrate.
• Drought-induced famines continue to threaten parts of Africa.
• Modern transportation helps deliver food aid during famines.