Aggrieve: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the Old French word 'aggriever', meaning to burden or harm.
• It can be traced back to the Latin term 'adgravare', meaning to aggravate or make heavier.
• The word has evolved over the centuries but retains its focus on causing distress.

Legal Context

• In legal terms, aggrievement refers to a party feeling harmed by a ruling or action, often used in administrative law.
• Individuals who feel aggrieved can file complaints or appeals to seek justice.
• The concept is crucial in ensuring that people's rights are protected in disputes.

Literature

• Aggrieve often appears in classic literature when characters face injustices that lead to their suffering.
• Shakespeare employed the term in several of his plays, highlighting themes of betrayal and harm.
• Contemporary authors utilize the word to evoke feelings of outrage and injustice among their characters.

Psychology

• Feeling aggrieved can lead to emotions like resentment and anger, impacting mental well-being.
• Psychologists study how perceived injustices affect interpersonal relationships and personal happiness.
• When people feel aggrieved, they often seek ways to address their grievances, which can include confrontations or seeking support.

Pop Culture

• In many movies and shows, characters who feel aggrieved often take a path of revenge or redemption.
• The theme of aggrievement stands central in social justice movements, where individuals demand recognition of their grievances.
• Songs and literature frequently explore the narrative of being aggrieved, resonating with audiences who share similar feelings.