* Adjective: This is the most common usage, meaning "extremely poor" or "lacking something essential."
* Example: "The family was destitute after the fire destroyed their home."
* Noun: This usage is less common and refers to a person who is extremely poor or lacking in resources.
* Example: "The charity provided food and shelter for the destitutes of the city."
The specific part of speech will depend on the context of the sentence.