Bereft: meaning, definitions and examples

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bereft

[bɪˈrɛft ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

feeling of loss

Deprived of or lacking something, especially a nonmaterial asset.

Synonyms

deprived, devoid, lacking.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bereft	Used to describe someone who is deeply sorrowful or deprived of something important or dear, often with an emotional or dramatic tone. After the sudden loss of her husband, she felt utterly bereft. He was bereft of words when he heard the tragic news.
deprived	Often used to describe a lack of basic needs or something necessary for a normal life, commonly used in social or economic contexts. Many children in impoverished areas are deprived of a proper education. Feeling deprived of sleep, she struggled to stay awake during the meeting.
devoid	Used to describe something that is completely lacking in a particular quality or characteristic, often in a neutral or factual tone. The desert landscape was devoid of vegetation. His voice was devoid of emotion as he delivered the news.
lacking	Often used in general contexts to describe a deficiency or absence of something, sometimes with a mild negative connotation, but usually less intense than 'bereft' or 'deprived'. Her argument was lacking in evidence. The sauce was tasty but lacking in spice.

Examples of usage

She felt bereft of hope after the tragic accident.
The bereft mother struggled to come to terms with her loss.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

being deprived or lacking

Deprive or dispossess (someone) of something, especially a nonmaterial asset.

Synonyms

deprive, dispossess, strip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bereft	Used when someone is left feeling sad and lonely due to loss. She felt bereft after her dog passed away. He was bereft of hope after the accident.
deprive	Used when something is taken away from someone, making them unable to have it. The children were deprived of proper nutrition. He was deprived of his rights.
dispossess	Used mainly in legal or formal contexts to indicate someone has been stripped of property or possessions. The family was dispossessed of their home due to unpaid taxes. He was dispossessed of his estate after the lawsuit.
strip	Used when something is removed completely, often in a literal or aggressive way. Can have a negative connotation. The company was stripped of its title due to cheating. He was stripped of his medals after the scandal.

Examples of usage

The family was bereft of their home after the fire.
He was bereft of his title due to the scandal.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Old English word 'beréafian', meaning 'to deprive'.
It has roots in several Germanic languages, contributing to its meaning of loss and deprivation.
Historically, it has maintained a strong connection with emotional and physical loss, using the same form for both.

Literature

Many poets and authors use this term to convey deep emotional grief, such as in works by John Keats and T.S. Eliot.
In Shakespeare's plays, characters often express feelings of being bereft in the face of love or friendship lost.
The word is often associated with themes of love, absence, and longing in contemporary novels.

Psychology

Feelings of being bereft can lead to intense emotions such as grief and anxiety, as the mind processes loss.
Research indicates that experiencing bereavement can trigger a deeper understanding of one's self and relationships.
Individuals may respond to feelings of being bereft in various ways, including seeking support or engaging in creative outlets.

Pop Culture

The term appears in popular songs and movies, often as a central theme of loss and longing.
Notable examples include the song 'Bereft' by Ewan McGregor, which explores feelings of being left without love.
Television shows frequently depict characters feeling bereft after the loss of a loved one, highlighting the impact on relationships.

Translations

Translations of the word "bereft" in other languages:

🇵🇹 privado

🇮🇳 वंचित

🇩🇪 beraubt

🇮🇩 kehilangan

🇺🇦 позбавлений

🇵🇱 pozbawiony

🇯🇵 失った

🇫🇷 privé

🇪🇸 privado

🇹🇷 yoksun

🇰🇷 빼앗긴

🇸🇦 محروم

🇨🇿 zbavený

🇸🇰 zbavený

🇨🇳 失去

🇸🇮 oropan

🇮🇸 sviptur

🇰🇿 айырылған

🇬🇪 მოკლებული

🇦🇿 məhrum

🇲🇽 privado

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,713, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
18710 thundering
18711 antitoxin
18712 convalescence
18713 bereft
18714 changeable
18715 ringed
18716 receptionist
...