distress

//dɪˈstres//
B2Frequency Level 9Neutral
Visual representation of distress

Noun

distressesPlural
1

Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain; a state of suffering or anguish.

The family was in great distress after hearing the news.

2

A situation of extreme danger or difficulty; a state requiring immediate assistance.

The ship sent out a distress signal when it began to sink.

3

Physical or financial hardship or trouble.

Many families are living in financial distress.

Verb

1

To cause anxiety, sorrow, or pain to someone; to upset or trouble greatly.

It distressed him to see his mother so unhappy.

2

To subject to pressure, strain, or adversity.

The economic crisis distressed many small businesses.

distress - Deep Vocabulary