distress etymology

Etymology:

  • Old French: destresse
  • Late Latin: districtius, comparative of districtus, meaning "strict, severe"
  • Latin: dis- ("apart") + stringere ("to draw tight")

Meaning:

  • Extreme suffering, anxiety, or hardship
  • A state of great emotional, mental, or physical pain
  • A situation that requires immediate attention and assistance

Origin:

The word "distress" originated in the 13th century, when it was used to describe a state of extreme hardship or suffering. It was often associated with legal situations, such as being in debt or facing eviction. By the 16th century, the word had expanded in meaning to include emotional and psychological distress as well.

The etymology of "distress" suggests that it originally referred to something that was "drawn tight," causing pain and difficulty. This metaphorical usage has persisted over time, and the word is now used to describe any situation that causes severe emotional, mental, or physical distress.

distress relate terms

  • strain

    Etymology Old French estreindre Latin stringere Proto Indo European strenk

  • strainer

    Etymology The word strainer originates from the Old French word estraignoir which m

  • distressed

    Etymology From Late Latin districtus past participle of districare to unravel disent

  • distress

    Etymology Old French destresse Late Latin districtius comparative of districtus mea

  • district

    Etymology The word district is derived from the Latin word districtus meaning a te

  • stress

    Etymology of stress The word stress comes from the Latin word stringere meaning

  • hurt

    Etymology The word hurt derives from the Middle English word hurten which is of Ang

  • torment

    Etymology Old French tormenter Latin tormentum Greek tormén instrument of to

  • disease

    Etymology Middle English disease from Old French desese from Latin dis aese not

  • need

    Etymology The word etymology is derived from the Greek words étymon meaning true m

  • put out

    Etymology Put verb Middle English putten from Old English putian potian to pl

  • other

    Etymology Origin Latin alter meaning the other of two Meaning A different or

  • throe

    Etymology The word throe comes from the Old English word þrāg meaning a struggle