Meaning of the word distress in English

What does distress mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

distress

US /dɪˈstres/

UK /dɪˈstres/

Noun

extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain

Example:

•

She was in great distress after losing her job.

•

The news caused him considerable emotional distress.

Synonym:

anguish suffering agony misery sorrow

Antonym:

calm peace comfort joy happiness

a state of danger or desperate need

Example:

•

The ship sent out a distress signal.

•

They were in distress and needed immediate help.

Synonym:

danger peril emergency crisis jeopardy

Antonym:

safety security relief

Verb

cause (someone) extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain

Example:

•

It distressed him to see his children suffering.

•

The constant noise began to distress her.

Synonym:

upset trouble worry bother perturb

Antonym:

comfort soothe calm relieve please

damage or mar the surface of (something) by making it appear older or more worn

Example:

•

The furniture was deliberately distressed to give it an antique look.

•

They sell distressed jeans with rips and faded areas.

Synonym:

age weather wear mar damage

Antonym:

restore repair renew polish

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Related Word:

distressed a damsel in distress