Definitions

poverty line

NOUN

poverty level

Synonyms

WEAK

bare existence breadline hand-to-mouth existence mere existence pauperism poverty trap subsistence level

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Grandparent-headed households living below the poverty line total 17%, compared to 11% of older adults living without young relatives, according to the U.S.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

The share of Peruvians living below the poverty line fell to 25.7% in 2025 from 58.7% in 2004.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026

The district also has the highest poverty rate in the city, with 42% of people living below the poverty line, according to the 2020 Census.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

If they earn less than 150% of the federal poverty line, or $48,225 for a family of four, borrowers pay nothing.

From Barron's • Feb. 10, 2026

Having stumbled upon a tolerable career, for the first time in my life I was actually living above the poverty line.

From "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer