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harrowing

adjective

/ˈharəʊɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of harrowing

Extremely distressing, traumatic, or emotionally painful to the point of causing deep anguish or torment.
"The woman's story of losing her child was a harrowing tale of heartbreak and loss."

Detailed meaning of harrowing

When we characterize an experience, event, or story as harrowing, we emphasize the profound emotional and psychological impact it has on individuals, often leading to feelings of fear, grief, or horror. Harrowing experiences can encompass a range of situations, such as surviving a natural disaster, witnessing a violent crime, or enduring a harrowing ordeal. This term conveys a sense of intensity and the potential for long-lasting emotional scars, underscoring the need for empathy and support for those who have endured such deeply distressing situations. Whether it's a harrowing account of survival, a harrowing memory, or a harrowing journey, this adjective emphasizes the severity of the emotional toll involved.

Example sentences containing harrowing

1. The soldier's account of the war was truly harrowing, leaving everyone in the room in shock.
2. The survivors of the natural disaster described their experiences as harrowing and life-changing.
3. The film was a harrowing depiction of the effects of war on innocent civilians.
4. The rescue mission was a harrowing experience, with the team facing numerous obstacles.
5. His speech was a harrowing reminder of the atrocities that occurred during the genocide.
6. The long journey through the mountains was a harrowing experience, with many close calls.

History and etymology of harrowing

The adjective 'harrowing' traces its origins to the agricultural tool known as a 'harrow,' which was used in the Middle Ages to break up and level soil, preparing it for planting. The word 'harrow' itself can be traced back to Old English, where it was referred to as a 'herg,' related to the action of raking or combing the earth. Over time, the term 'harrowing' extended its meaning beyond agriculture to describe experiences that were emotionally distressing or traumatic, much like the way the harrow disrupted the earth. Thus, the etymology of 'harrowing' reflects the idea of emotional upheaval and deep anguish, capturing the profound distress and torment associated with harrowing experiences.

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Further usage examples of harrowing

1. It was a harrowing experience to witness the destruction caused by the tornado.
2. The patients in the hospital were subjected to harrowing conditions, with inadequate medical care.
3. The final scene of the movie was a harrowing climax, leaving everyone on the edge of their seats.
4. The book was a harrowing read, with many graphic descriptions of violence and suffering.
5. The sound of the siren was harrowing, signaling that another disaster had occurred.
6. His school was harrowing experience of bullying and intimidation.
7. The harrowing accident left indelible scars on their hearts and minds.
8. Surviving the shipwreck was a harrowing tale of courage and resilience.
9. Her harrowing scream pierced the silence of the night, filled with terror.
10. The war's harrowing accounts of suffering and loss haunted veterans.
11. The movie offered a harrowing portrayal of the devastating effects of addiction.
12. The stormy seas made for a harrowing and treacherous voyage.
13. Escaping the burning building was a harrowing race against time.
14. The novel painted a harrowing picture of survival against all odds.
15. The accident scene was a harrowing and chaotic scene of tragedy.
16. His harrowing confession shook the foundations of their trust.
17. The harrowing news brought a collective sense of grief and sorrow.
18. Climbing the mountain was a harrowing test of physical and mental strength.
19. The documentary exposed the harrowing consequences of environmental neglect.
20. The search for the missing child was a harrowing and emotionally draining experience.
21. Providing harrowing testimony in court required immense courage.
22. Healthcare workers faced harrowing challenges during the height of the pandemic.
23. The journey through the jungle was a harrowing adventure filled with danger.
24. The earthquake survivors shared their harrowing accounts of the disaster.
25. The harrowing memories of combat haunted him long after the war ended.
26. The trial was a harrowing experience for all involved, filled with tension.