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Dictionary definition of grief

The deep and intense sorrow, pain, and emotional distress experienced as a response to a significant loss or bereavement.
"She was overcome with grief upon hearing the news of her father's passing."

Detailed meaning of grief

It is a complex and multifaceted human emotion that arises from various sources of anguish, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, or the loss of something deeply cherished. Grief is characterized by a profound sense of sadness, longing, and mourning. It involves a range of emotional, psychological, and physical reactions, including feelings of emptiness, despair, anger, guilt, and confusion. Grief is a deeply personal and individual experience, with each person navigating their own unique path through the grieving process. It is a natural and necessary response to loss, allowing individuals to come to terms with their emotions, adjust to the new reality, and eventually find healing and acceptance.

Example sentences of grief

1. The community came together to offer support and comfort during their time of grief.
2. He found solace in expressing his grief through writing and poetry.
3. The waves of grief washed over her as she sorted through her late mother's belongings.
4. The grief of losing a pet can be just as profound as losing a human loved one.
5. The funeral was a somber occasion, filled with tears and shared grief.
6. They sought therapy to help them navigate through the stages of grief.

History and etymology of grief

The noun 'grief' can be traced back to the Old French word 'gref,' which meant 'hardship' or 'wrong.' This Old French term, in turn, came from the Latin word 'gravis,' which means 'heavy' or 'weighty.' The etymology of 'grief' is closely tied to the notion of heaviness and burden. When we experience grief, we often describe it as a heavy emotional burden, a profound and intense sorrow that weighs upon us. This connection between emotional suffering and a heavy load is reflected in the historical evolution of the word 'grief,' which has consistently conveyed the deep and painful emotional distress that arises in response to a significant loss or bereavement.

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Further usage examples of grief

1. The grief of a failed relationship can linger long after the breakup.
2. The counselor provided a safe space for individuals to express their grief and emotions.
3. The anniversary of her loved one's death brought a fresh wave of grief each year.
4. He wore black as a sign of mourning and grief for his departed friend.
5. It takes time to heal from the depths of grief and find a new sense of normalcy.
6. The weight of grief is often unbearable in moments of loss.
7. Grief can be a long and winding journey towards healing.
8. In times of grief, the support of loved ones is invaluable.
9. The depth of her grief was evident in her tearful eyes.
10. Grief has a unique way of reshaping one's perspective on life.
11. Time alone cannot fully heal the wounds of grief.
12. The funeral was a somber occasion filled with deep grief.
13. Grief can bring out the strength and resilience within us.
14. The stages of grief vary from person to person.
15. Her art became a way to cope with the pain of grief.
16. Grief is a universal human experience that knows no boundaries.
17. Grief can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming.
18. Friends offered their condolences in the midst of her grief.
19. The sound of his laughter was a balm to her grieving heart.
20. Grief is a powerful reminder of the fragility of life.
21. Coping with grief requires patience and self-compassion.
22. Memories are a cherished treasure in times of grief.
23. The community came together to share their collective grief.
24. Grief can inspire acts of kindness and empathy.
25. In the darkness of grief, there is still a glimmer of hope.