Bereaved woman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜”
Add to dictionary

bereaved woman

[bษชหˆriหvd หˆwสŠmษ™n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

grief

A woman who has suffered the loss of a loved one, typically through death. She is in a state of mourning and sadness, experiencing deep emotional pain and sorrow.

Synonyms

grieving woman, mourning woman, sorrowful woman.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
bereaved woman

This term is used to describe a woman who has recently lost someone very close to her, such as a family member or a close friend. It emphasizes the loss and the relationship to the deceased.

  • The bereaved woman struggled to cope with the loss of her husband.
  • Support groups offer solace to the bereaved woman during her time of need.
grieving woman

This term is suitable for describing a woman who is actively experiencing grief. It focuses more on the emotional process rather than the relationship lost.

  • The grieving woman found it difficult to return to her daily routine.
  • Counselors offer therapy sessions to help the grieving woman.
mourning woman

This phrase is often used to describe a woman who is in the formal period of mourning, which may include wearing particular clothing, participating in rituals, or showing other signs of mourning.

  • The mourning woman wore black for several months after her father's death.
  • During the funeral, the mourning woman was surrounded by family and friends.
sorrowful woman

This term is general and describes a woman who is feeling deep sorrow. It is not strictly related to death, so it could be used for various situations where profound sadness is involved.

  • The sorrowful woman could barely speak about her recent hardships.
  • Everyone noticed the sorrowful woman as she walked through the park, lost in her thoughts.

Examples of usage

  • She is a bereaved woman who lost her husband in a tragic accident.
  • The bereaved woman found solace in the support of her family and friends.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • In many cultures, rituals for the bereaved have been essential for processing grief, such as mourning periods and specific dress codes.
  • Historically, women have often been the primary caregivers and, following a loss, they may become the focus of community support and mourning traditions.

Psychology

  • Grieving can affect a woman's mental health significantly, leading to emotional responses like sadness, anger, or guilt, as well as physical symptoms.
  • Studies show that the social support received by bereaved women can greatly influence their ability to cope with loss and move forward.

Literature

  • Numerous novels and poems feature bereaved women as central characters, exploring themes of loss, resilience, and transformation.
  • Classic literature often reflects societal expectations of mourning, examining how bereaved women navigate their grief within their social contexts.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many societies, mourning practices for bereaved women vary, from elaborate funeral rituals to specific periods of seclusion.
  • Some cultures encourage bereaved individuals to express their grief publicly, believing it leads to healing, while others advocate for private mourning.

Support and Coping

  • Bereaved women often benefit from support groups that provide a safe space to share experiences and feelings with others who have faced similar losses.
  • Professionals recommend finding positive outlets for grief, such as art or writing, as a way for bereaved women to express and process their emotions.

Origin of 'bereaved woman'

The term 'bereaved woman' dates back to the 19th century, derived from the Old English word 'bereafian,' meaning 'deprive of, take away.' It has been used to describe women who have experienced loss and grief, particularly in the context of death. Throughout history, women have often been expected to bear the emotional burden of loss, leading to the recognition of the unique struggles faced by bereaved women.