# orphaned

/ˈɔɹfənd/ (US) · /ˈɔːfənd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/orphaned
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

describing a child whose parents have died. It can also describe something that has been left alone or separated from its main part.

For teachers: having lost one or both parents through death. Often used as a participial adjective; can also describe a technical or physical object that has been disconnected from its supporting system.

## Examples

- The charity helps orphaned children find new homes.
- After the earthquake, many orphaned animals were taken to a local shelter for care and rehabilitation.
- The documentary explores the lives of children orphaned by the conflict, focusing on the community-led initiatives that provide them with education and emotional support.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used as a participial adjective before a noun or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'become'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.