Brokenhearted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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brokenhearted

[ˈbrəʊkənˈhɑːrtɪd ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

feeling

Feeling great sadness or grief, especially as the result of a failed romantic relationship.

Synonyms

bereaved, grief-stricken, heartbroken, sorrowful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
brokenhearted	Used to describe someone who feels deep sadness due to a personal loss or disappointment, often related to romantic relationships. She was brokenhearted after the sudden end of her long-term relationship.
grief-stricken	Used to describe someone who is profoundly affected by grief, often due to the death of a loved one. This term emphasizes the deep impact of the loss. He was grief-stricken when he heard the news of his best friend's passing.
sorrowful	Used more generally to describe someone who feels or expresses deep sadness or sorrow. It is often used in literature or formal speech. He had a sorrowful expression on his face after hearing about the tragic accident.
heartbroken	Similar to 'brokenhearted', this term describes someone who is extremely sad or disappointed, often because of a romantic situation. She was heartbroken when he moved to another country.
bereaved	Typically used to describe someone who has lost a loved one through death. This term is often used in formal or sensitive contexts. The bereaved family members gathered to remember their beloved grandmother.

Examples of usage

She was brokenhearted when he told her it was over.
His brokenhearted cries echoed through the empty house.
I could see the brokenhearted look in her eyes.
The movie always makes me feel brokenhearted.
Despite being brokenhearted, she tried to stay strong.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Experiencing heartbreak can trigger a feeling similar to physical pain, as studies show emotional distress activates the same brain regions as physical hurt.
It's common for people to feel symptoms like sadness, fatigue, and even physical discomfort during a heartbreak.

Pop Culture

Numerous songs, like those by Adele and Taylor Swift, center around themes of heartbreak and have resonated widely with audiences.
In movies, the classic trope of a 'brokenhearted' character often leads to a journey of self-discovery and healing.

Literature

Romantic literature often explores themes of brokenheartedness, portraying characters that undergo profound emotional struggles.
Shakespeare's plays frequently depict heartbreak, showcasing the turmoil it brings to love and relationships.

Cultural Practices

Many cultures have traditions or rituals for coping with heartbreak, recognizing it as a universal experience.
In some societies, storytelling and sharing experiences are encouraged as a way to heal from the sadness of broken relationships.

Origin of 'brokenhearted'

Main points about word origin

The word is a combination of 'broken,' meaning damaged, and 'hearted,' relating to emotions.
The usage of 'brokenhearted' has been traced back to the 16th century in literature and poetry.

The term 'brokenhearted' dates back to the late 16th century, combining 'broken' and 'hearted' to describe the emotional pain associated with heartbreak. Throughout history, poets, songwriters, and artists have explored the theme of being brokenhearted in various forms of expression, highlighting the universal experience of heartache.