Distress

/dɪˈstrɛs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.

She was in distress after hearing the news of her friend's accident.

The state of being in danger or urgent need.

The sailor sent a distress signal when his boat began to sink.

Financial hardship or trouble.

Many families are experiencing distress due to the economic downturn.

verb

To cause someone to feel worry, sadness, or pain.

The loud noises from the construction site distress the residents.

To be in a state of physical or mental suffering.

He was distressed by the ongoing conflict in his community.

From Old French 'destress', from Latin 'districere', meaning to draw apart.

distress signal:

An internationally recognized signal indicating a need for help.

financial distress:

A situation in which a person or entity cannot meet its financial obligations.

emotional distress:

A psychological response to a traumatic event.

In a rough spot

I'm really in a rough spot with my finances right now.

Feeling the heat

I'm feeling the heat at work with all these deadlines.