Grieving Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grieving

[หˆษกriหvษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

expressing sorrow

Feeling or showing deep sorrow or sadness, especially in response to a loss. It is a natural emotional response to losing someone or something important.

Synonyms

lamenting, mourning, sorrowing, suffering.

Examples of usage

  • She was still grieving for her late husband.
  • The family is grieving the loss of their beloved pet.
Context #2 | Noun

the process of mourning

The act or process of experiencing grief, usually related to the death of a loved one. It involves a range of emotions such as sadness, longing, and sometimes anger.

Synonyms

bereavement, mourning, sadness, sorrow.

Examples of usage

  • Grieving is a natural part of the healing process.
  • She went through a period of intense grieving after her father's passing.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Grieving is a natural response to loss and helps people process their feelings.
  • There are different stages of grief, such as denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance, as described by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kรผbler-Ross.
  • Everyone grieves differently; some people cry, while others may want to be alone or talk with friends.

Cultural Practices

  • Many cultures have specific rituals for mourning, such as wearing black clothing or conducting memorial services.
  • In some cultures, there are set periods for grieving, like the Jewish practice of sitting shiva for seven days after a loss.
  • Certain traditions honor the deceased with offerings or celebrations on specific days, such as Dรญa de los Muertos in Mexico.

Literature

  • Grieving is a common theme in literature, exploring human emotions and resilience; works like 'The Year of Magical Thinking' by Joan Didion delve into personal loss.
  • Poets often capture the essence of grief, like the famous lines from John Keats that reflect on love and loss.
  • Childrenโ€™s books about grief, such as 'The Tenth Good Thing About Barney,' help young readers understand and process their feelings.

Health

  • Research shows that expressing feelings of grief can lead to better psychological health in the long run.
  • Support groups can provide comfort and understanding for those dealing with loss, helping individuals feel less alone.
  • Grieving can also affect physical health, as it may lead to changes in sleep, appetite, and energy levels.

Art

  • Art has often served as an outlet for grieving; many artists create works that reflect their feelings of loss and remembrance.
  • Famous paintings, like Edvard Munch's 'The Scream,' symbolize deep emotional anguish, often linked to personal loss.
  • Music plays an essential role in processing grief, with numerous songs dedicated to loss and remembrance, providing solace to listeners.

Origin of 'grieving'

The word 'grieving' originates from the Middle English word 'greven' which means 'to cause grief or pain'. It has evolved over time to represent the deep sorrow and sadness associated with loss. The process of grieving has been studied by psychologists and therapists to understand its impact on mental health and well-being.


See also: griever, grievous.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,118, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.