Travailed - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

past tense

The word 'travailed' is the past tense of the verb 'travail', which means to engage in painful or laborious effort. It often refers to a struggle or toil, especially in a difficult situation. This term can be used to describe both physical labor and emotional or mental effort. Its usage is often found in literary contexts, conveying a sense of hardship and resilience in facing challenges.

Synonyms

labored, struggled, toiled, worked hard.

Examples of usage

She travailed through her studies to achieve her degree.
The workers travailed long hours to finish the project.
He trekked through the mountains and travailed with exhaustion.
They travailed in silence, reflecting on their struggles.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

In medieval times, the term was used to describe the onerous conditions of peasants working the land.
During the Industrial Revolution, 'travailed' described the strenuous efforts of laborers in factories, highlighting the harsh realities of worker life.
In literature, notable authors like John Milton and William Wordsworth have employed the term to emphasize the struggles of their characters.

Psychology

Researchers suggest that the process of 'travailed work' can lead to a sense of accomplishment and can contribute positively to mental health when challenges are successfully overcome.
It's shown that enduring hard work can result in increased resilience and the development of coping strategies in individuals.
The concept of 'grit', which involves perseverance in the face of setbacks, is closely aligned with the notion of travailing through difficulties.

Cultural Significance

Many cultures celebrate the idea of ‘travailed’ efforts, showcasing stories of individuals who overcame insurmountable odds to achieve their dreams.
In folk tales and proverbs, characters who have ‘travailed’ are often portrayed as wise, embodying the notion that hard work leads to wisdom.
Art and music frequently reflect the theme of travail, illustrating the emotional depth of struggle and triumph.

Literature

The term appears in various literary forms to depict the struggles of characters, imparting a universal theme of hard work and perseverance.
In biblical texts, 'travailed' is often used metaphorically to express the burdens and efforts of faith.
Modern literature continues to explore the dimensions of 'travailed' experiences in character development and plot progression.

Origin of 'travailed'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Middle English 'travaillen' meaning to labor or toil, and it has roots in Latin 'travagare', which means to labor or exert oneself.
Related words include 'travail', which also means painful effort, and 'travel', reflecting the connection between hard work and journeys.
The association with hardship is reflected in historical texts where 'travailed' often described the struggles of people in labor-intensive tasks.

The term 'travailed' originates from the late Middle English word 'travailen', which can be traced back to the Old French 'travailler', meaning to work, toil, or labor. This French term itself derives from the Latin word 'tripalium', a reference to a three-pole instrument used for torture, symbolizing severe physical and emotional distress. Even in its evolution, the word maintained a connotation of hardship and suffering associated with work. As language evolved, 'travail' came to embody not just the act of labor but also the struggles associated with it, making it a powerful term in both romantic and profound contexts.

Travailed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations