poverty line

noun

: a level of personal or family income below which one is classified as poor according to governmental standards

called also poverty level

Examples of poverty line in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The result is widespread poverty and unemployment (the World Bank says that over 56% of Nigerians live below the national poverty line). Nish Acharya, Forbes.com, 26 Aug. 2025 FQHCs charge a subsidized rate based on ability to pay, with 90% of their patients at or below 200% of the federal poverty line. Emily Crawford, NPR, 12 Aug. 2025 For example, the House program would prioritize children with special education needs in families at or below 500% of the federal poverty line — about $160,000 for a family of four. Keri Heath, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 Individuals earning just above the federal poverty line (e.g., a family of four making a total of $32,250 per year or roughly $8,000 per person per year), for instance, would be charged up to $35 per visit, pushing basic care further out of their reach. Pia Valvassori, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for poverty line

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of poverty line was in 1901

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Cite this Entry

“Poverty line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/poverty%20line. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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