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throe

noun

/θroʊ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of throe

A sharp, intense, and often painful spasm or contraction, typically experienced in the context of physical distress or emotional turmoil.
"She cried out in the throes of labor, enduring intense contractions."

Detailed meaning of throe

Throes are commonly associated with conditions such as severe pain, agony, or anguish. It signifies a sudden and gripping sensation of suffering or struggle, often accompanied by involuntary movements or convulsions. The term "throe" is frequently used metaphorically to describe the tumultuous and agonizing stages of intense emotions or difficult situations. It conveys a sense of being caught in the grip of powerful forces that cause great upheaval or distress. The noun "throe" captures the essence of an intense, spasmodic experience, highlighting the profound and often disruptive nature of the physical or emotional turmoil being endured.

Example sentences containing throe

1. The patient writhed in the throes of a severe migraine, clutching their head in agony.
2. The city was in the throes of a financial crisis, grappling with widespread unemployment and budget cuts.
3. He experienced the throes of heartbreak, unable to sleep or eat due to the emotional pain.
4. The country was in the throes of political upheaval, with protests and demonstrations taking place daily.
5. The business was in the throes of a major restructuring, leading to layoffs and office closures.
6. She clutched her stomach in the throes of a stomachache, doubled over in pain.

History and etymology of throe

The noun 'throe' has an etymology that traces back to the Old English word 'þrā,' meaning 'pain' or 'torment.' This etymology aptly captures the essence of 'throe' as a sharp, intense, and often painful spasm or contraction, typically experienced in the context of physical distress or emotional turmoil. 'Throe' signifies the acute and distressing nature of such spasms, which can be likened to the torment of pain and suffering. Whether describing the physical throes of childbirth or the emotional throes of grief, this term emphasizes the intensity and difficulty of the experience, highlighting the profound impact it can have on individuals.

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Further usage examples of throe

1. The artist painted with passion, fully immersed in the throes of creativity.
2. He gasped for breath in the throes of a severe asthma attack.
3. The city was in the throes of a heatwave, with temperatures soaring to record highs.
4. The couple fought bitterly in the throes of a heated argument, their voices echoing through the house.
5. The company was in the throes of a product recall, dealing with the repercussions of a manufacturing defect.
6. In the throes of labor, she gritted her teeth through each painful throe.
7. The boxer clenched his jaw to endure the throes of the final round.
8. He was in the throes of a deep emotional crisis, seeking help.
9. The city was in the throes of a heatwave, with temperatures soaring.
10. During the throes of grief, she found solace in her friends' support.
11. The patient's face contorted in the throes of a severe migraine.
12. The nation was in the throes of a divisive political debate.
13. In the throes of battle, he displayed remarkable courage.
14. The actress delivered a powerful monologue in the throes of despair.
15. He experienced the throes of anxiety before his big presentation.
16. The orchestra played with passion in the throes of the symphony.
17. The car engine sputtered in the throes of mechanical failure.
18. In the throes of creativity, the artist painted without interruption.
19. The company struggled in the throes of a financial crisis.
20. She found herself in the throes of an unexpected romance.
21. The athlete pushed through the throes of exhaustion to finish the race.
22. In the throes of addiction, he sought help from a support group.
23. The ship rocked violently in the throes of a storm at sea.
24. The nation was in the throes of a historic economic boom.
25. She cried out in the throes of childbirth, bringing a new life into the world.