Famine (noun)

1. A severe shortage of food, typically affecting a large population.
2. A scarcity of something essential.

Origin:

Middle english famyne, from old english fæmn want, scarcity; akin to old high german fimf hunger, latin fame.

Examples:

1. The famine caused widespread suffering and death.
2. The famine was caused by a drought that destroyed the crops.
3. The famine hit the country hard.
4. Famine still exists in some parts of the world.
5. The famine was the worst in the region's history.