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Travail Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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travail

[trəˈvæl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

work effort

Travail is often used to describe a significant amount of work or labor, especially if it is arduous or challenging. It can refer to the physical or mental exertion required to complete a task. This term is often associated with a sense of struggle or hardship, even when describing routine tasks. Historically, travail has been used to highlight the burdensome nature of certain types of work, especially in contexts related to childbirth or intense labor.

Synonyms

hardship, labor, struggle, toil.

Examples of usage

  • The travail of laborers is often overlooked.
  • She spoke of the travail involved in raising a family.
  • The artist described the travail that goes into creating a masterpiece.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The word appears in classic literature, often highlighting the struggles of characters, embodying the human condition.
  • In John Milton's 'Paradise Lost,' the concept of travail is used to describe the struggles of mankind in their search for redemption.

Psychology

  • Research indicates that experiencing and overcoming travail can lead to greater resilience and personal growth.
  • When faced with challenges, the brain releases stress hormones, which can ultimately lead to changes in brain chemistry, impacting mood and behavior.

Art

  • Many artists depict themes of travail in paintings and sculptures, capturing the essence of struggle and perseverance in the creative process.
  • The Impressionist movement often highlighted the everyday toil of laborers, showing the beauty and dignity found in hard work.

History

  • Throughout history, 'travail' has been associated with the struggles of the working class during the Industrial Revolution.
  • The concept of hard work has been a central theme in shaping labor laws and workers' rights movements globally.

Origin of 'travail'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Latin word 'tripalium,' which refers to a three-staked instrument of torture, showing the pain associated with hard work.
  • The term evolved in Old French to mean 'to labor or struggle,' reflecting the difficulty of work.

The word 'travail' originates from the Old French word 'travailler', which means 'to labor', itself derived from the Latin 'tripalium', an instrument of torture used in ancient Rome. This connection underscores the notion that work can often be painful or burdensome. Over time, the word evolved to describe not only the laborious aspect of work but also the metaphorical struggles associated with tasks that require significant effort. In English, 'travail' has maintained its association with hard work and struggle. In literary contexts, it can evoke deeper themes of effort and suffering, making it a powerful choice in both prose and poetry.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,542, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.