Blog

Meaning of Word

Misery refers to a state of great suffering or unhappiness, often caused by pain, poverty, or emotional distress.

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Noun: A feeling of intense unhappiness or suffering.
   • Example: Her misery was evident after losing her job.
2. Noun: A condition characterized by hardship, poverty, or distress.
   • Example: The refugees lived in misery due to the lack of basic necessities.
3. Noun: Something that causes intense unhappiness or suffering.
   • Example: The cold winter brought misery to the homeless.

History and Origin

The word “misery” comes from the Latin word miseria, meaning “wretchedness” or “misfortune,” derived from miser, meaning “wretched” or “unfortunate.” It entered Middle English through Old French as misere and retained its association with suffering and distress.

Detailed Explanation

“Misery” describes both emotional and physical states of severe discomfort or distress. It can be temporary, such as the misery of losing a loved one, or long-lasting, like living in poverty. While it primarily refers to negative experiences, its intensity often makes it a poignant word to describe profound suffering. It is also used metaphorically, as in “the misery of waiting in uncertainty.”

Example Sentences

1. She endured years of misery before finding happiness.
2. His illness caused him great physical misery.
3. The drought brought misery to farmers across the region.
4. The character’s misery was palpable throughout the novel.
5. Financial troubles plunged the family into misery.
6. The movie highlighted the misery of war-torn communities.
7. He couldn’t hide his misery after failing the exam.
8. Misery loves company, so they often shared their struggles.
9. The poor living conditions added to their misery.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Suffering: The experience of physical or emotional pain.
2. Despair: A complete loss of hope.
3. Distress: Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.
4. Agony: Severe physical or mental suffering.
5. Torment: Intense suffering, often prolonged.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Wretchedness: A state of being very unhappy or unfortunate.
2. Adversity: Difficult or challenging circumstances.
3. Grief: Deep sorrow, often caused by loss.
4. Hardship: Severe suffering or deprivation.
5. Melancholy: A deep, long-lasting sadness.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Anguish: Severe emotional or physical pain.
2. Desolation: A state of emptiness or hopelessness.
3. Hopelessness: A lack of hope or optimism.
4. Despondency: A state of low spirits due to loss or difficulty.
5. Loneliness: Sadness from feeling isolated or abandoned.

Antonyms

1. Happiness
2. Joy
3. Contentment
4. Bliss
5. Pleasure