Poor/pʊr,pɔːr/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Economic Status Use 'poor' to describe someone's low financial condition, showing lack of wealth. Despite being poor, she always carries a smile. Pro Tip 2/3Sensitive Term 'Poor' can sound insensitive; 'economically disadvantaged' is more formal and considerate. Many organizations help the economically disadvantaged. Pro Tip 3/3Empathy Expression Use 'poor' to show empathy towards someone's difficult financial situation. He donated clothes to the poor families in his community.