The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

bereft

IPA:

Dictionary definition of bereft

Deprived or lacking in a particular quality, possession, or emotion, typically due to a loss or absence.
"It was a dull storyline and completely bereft of imagination."

Detailed meaning of bereft

When a person or object is described as bereft, it implies a deep sense of emptiness or deprivation, often stemming from the absence of something that was once cherished or essential. This term conveys a profound feeling of loss or abandonment. For example, a person who has lost a loved one may feel bereft of companionship, while a barren landscape devoid of vegetation may be described as bereft of life. "Bereft" underscores the idea of a poignant absence or emptiness, often associated with grief, sadness, or longing.

Example sentences containing bereft

1. She felt bereft of hope after the tragic loss of her loved one.
2. The abandoned puppy looked so bereft, it tugged at our hearts.
3. The town was bereft of any meaningful economic opportunities.
4. His face appeared bereft of all joy as he recounted the sad news.
5. The old, decrepit house stood bereft of any signs of life.
6. After the breakup, he was left feeling utterly bereft.

History and etymology of bereft

The adjective 'bereft' has its etymological origins in Old English, specifically from the word 'berēafian,' which means 'to deprive' or 'to take away.' In Old English, 'berēafian' was used to describe the act of taking away possessions or qualities from someone. Over time, it transformed into the modern term 'bereft,' which signifies being deprived or lacking in a particular quality, possession, or emotion, usually due to a loss or absence. 'Bereft' captures the sense of emptiness or loss that follows the deprivation of something valuable or essential. The etymology of 'bereft' underscores its historical connection to the idea of being stripped of something, emphasizing the sense of absence and desolation that often accompanies such loss.

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Further usage examples of bereft

1. The barren landscape was bereft of vegetation due to the drought.
2. The empty playground seemed bereft without the laughter of children.
3. The once bustling street was now bereft of activity and vibrancy.
4. She stood there, bereft of words, unable to express her grief.
5. She felt bereft when her loved one passed away.
6. He was bereft of ideas on how to fix the problem.
7. The town was bereft of life after the disaster struck.
8. She felt bereft of hope after receiving the bad news.
9. He was bereft of all emotion after the shock.
10. The children were bereft of their parents' love.
11. She was bereft of energy after a long day of work.
12. He was bereft of his possessions after the robbery.
13. The city was bereft of power after the storm.
14. She was bereft of her sense of security after the attack.
15. He was bereft of his ability to speak after the accident.
16. The country was bereft of resources after the war.
17. It was a predictable movie and completely bereft of originality.
18. It was a monotonous presentation and totally bereft of inspiration.
19. Her office was stark and totally bereft of colour.
20. He was in utter disbelief and entirely bereft of words.
21. The instant-meal was completely bereft of nutrition and taste.
22. The remote outpost seemed to be utterly bereft of human life.