primary poverty en · NOUN
Etymology
A categorization created by Seebohm Rowntree.
Meanings
-
(uncountable) The condition of living below the poverty line, having insufficient income to meet one's basic needs.
People living in primary poverty cannot obtain even the basic necessities of life (food, shelter and clothing) no matter how well they organise and manage their budgets.
2003, Rosemary Rees, Britain, 1890-1939: