1. the state of lacking basic necessities or comforts of life
2. the act of depriving someone of something
Usage: formal

Examples

• The refugees endured years of privation in the camps.
• Many families faced severe privation during the economic crisis.
• She grew up in privation, lacking even basic clothing and food.
• The prisoners suffered from privation of sunlight and fresh air.
• His childhood privations made him appreciate simple comforts.
• The war brought widespread privation to the civilian population.