Developing countries are nations that are considered to be in the process of progressing towards industrialization and modernization. Some synonyms for the term developing country include third world country, less developed country, and underdeveloped country. These countries often have lower levels of education, healthcare, and access to technology. They may also have significant poverty levels and a lack of infrastructure. These countries are often characterized by their agricultural or resource-based economies, and often rely on foreign aid and assistance from more developed nations. The term developing country is used primarily to describe nations that are working towards achieving economic and social stability, and improving their standard of living.