Travailing - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

laboring hard

Travailing is a term that describes the act of engaging in laborious work or effort, typically associated with intense physical or emotional strain. It has historical connotations of giving birth but has expanded in usage to encompass any form of strenuous activity. Often, it implies a sense of suffering or challenge one must endure to achieve a goal. The term can be used both in literal and figurative contexts, showcasing the struggle inherent in any significant endeavor.

Synonyms

laboring, struggling, toiling, working hard.

Examples of usage

She was travailing through the difficult project at work.
The team is travailing in the heat to complete the construction on time.
He found himself travailing with doubt during the marathon.
They were travailing to achieve their dreams despite the numerous obstacles.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In literature, the concept of travail often symbolizes the journey of characters facing hardships and obstacles.
Many works, like John Milton's 'Paradise Lost', depict travail as integral to growth and discovery.
Dante Alighieri's 'Inferno' illustrates the spiritual travail of souls as they navigate their sins in the afterlife.

Psychology

Struggling through difficult tasks can lead to personal growth, building resilience and patience.
The feeling of travailing can trigger the brain's stress responses, which may motivate individuals to overcome challenges.
Many psychologists suggest that confronting difficult situations helps build self-efficacy and confidence.

History

Traditionally, many labor movements emphasized the importance of hard work and the struggle for workers' rights.
Historical accounts often highlight the travail of pioneers and explorers as they faced unknown challenges.
During the Industrial Revolution, workers experienced significant travail as they adapted to harsh working conditions.

Pop Culture

Television shows frequently depict characters travailing through personal and professional dilemmas, emphasizing relatability.
In film, the hero's journey often involves a phase of travail, symbolizing the struggle before triumph.
Music often captures the essence of travail, reflecting the emotions and challenges of life through lyrics and melodies.

Origin of 'travailing'

Main points about word origin

The word originates from the Middle English term 'travaillen', which means to labor or work hard.
It is derived from the Old French 'travailler', which translates to 'to toil or labor'.
Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'tripaliare', meaning 'to torture or torment', reflecting its association with struggle.

The word 'travailing' is derived from the Middle English term 'travailen,' which itself comes from the Old French 'travailler.' This Old French word has its roots in the Latin word 'trepalium,' meaning an instrument of torture, which reflects the intense effort and pain associated with arduous labor. Over time, the meaning of 'travailing' evolved from its literal association with suffering and torture to encompass the broader concept of hard work and perseverance. In the context of childbirth, 'travail' emphasizes the struggle that women endure. The linguistic journey of the word showcases the transition from a term denoting pain and hardship to one that celebrates the human spirit's resilience and determination in overcoming challenges.

Travailing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations