Harrowed: meaning, definitions and examples
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harrowed
[ˈhær.oʊd ]
Definition
emotional state
Harrowed refers to a state of having been deeply distressed or tormented, often emotionally. It is commonly used to describe someone who is experiencing significant anxiety or has been affected by a traumatic event. The term conveys a sense of being worn down or troubled. People may use it to express feelings of mental anguish caused by external circumstances.
Synonyms
anguished, distressed, pained, tormented, troubled.
Examples of usage
- She felt harrowed after the news of her friend’s accident.
- His harrowed expression revealed the pain he was struggling with.
- After the harrowing experience, he needed time to recover.
- The film depicted the harrowed lives of war survivors.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Old English 'harwe,' which means to break up soil or disturb.
- In the 14th century, 'harrow' also referred to a tool used in farming, which brings a sense of disturbance or upheaval.
- Over time, the meaning shifted from physical disruption to emotional distress.
Psychology
- Feeling harrowed can be linked to anxiety or trauma, as these emotions can deeply impact a person's mental state.
- Research shows that prolonged distress can affect your physical health, leading to conditions like heart disease.
- People who experience heavy sadness often find it takes time and support to heal, both emotionally and mentally.
Literature
- In many novels, characters who face harrowing experiences often undergo significant personal growth by overcoming their struggles.
- Harrowing tales are often used in storytelling to evoke empathy and challenge the audience, making them reflect on humanity.
- Classic literature often explores the theme of despair, highlighting the emotional state of characters in harrowing situations.
Pop Culture
- Many movies feature harrowing plots involving intense conflict or trauma, often leaving the audience emotionally moved.
- Songs that evoke feelings of sorrow often use harrowed themes to reflect on love lost and life’s challenges.
- Reality TV often showcases harrowing personal stories as a means of engaging viewers on an emotional level.
Translations
Translations of the word "harrowed" in other languages:
🇵🇹 afligido
🇮🇳 पीड़ित
🇩🇪 geplagt
🇮🇩 tertekan
🇺🇦 пригнічений
🇵🇱 dręczony
🇯🇵 悩まされた
🇫🇷 affligé
🇪🇸 afligido
🇹🇷 ızdırap çeken
🇰🇷 고통받는
🇸🇦 معذّب
🇨🇿 trápený
🇸🇰 trápený
🇨🇳 痛苦的
🇸🇮 trpinčen
🇮🇸 pínaður
🇰🇿 азап шегетін
🇬🇪 წამებული
🇦🇿 əziyyət çəkən
🇲🇽 afligido