Meaning & Definition of word "Adversity"

Adversity

/ədˈvɜːrsɪti/

noun:

  • 1. A difficult or unpleasant situation or condition.
    • Example: She faced great adversity after losing her job unexpectedly.
  • 2. Misfortune or hardship that is often encountered in life.
    • Example: He showed resilience in the face of adversity during his recovery.
  • 3. An unfavorable or challenging circumstance.
    • Example: Adversity can often lead to personal growth and strength.
  • 4. An instance of serious or continued difficulty.
    • Example: The team overcame adversity to win the championship.
  • 5. A condition marked by misfortune or hardship.
    • Example: The novel explores the themes of love and adversity in challenging times.

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin 'adversitas', from 'advertere' (to turn toward).

Common Phrases and Expressions

facing adversity:

Confronting difficult situations or challenges.

rise above adversity:

To overcome difficult circumstances.

adversity builds character:

Going through hard times develops personal strength.

Related Words

struggle:

A forceful or violent effort to get free of restraint or resist attack.

resilience:

The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.

obstacle:

A thing that blocks one's way or prevents or hinders progress.

Slang Meanings of adversity

Meaning: Life's curveballs

Example Sentence: You just have to roll with life's curveballs and keep going.

Meaning: Tough times

Example Sentence: We've all had tough times, but they make us who we are.