grief.

1. Deep emotional pain caused by loss, especially someone's death.

2. Trouble, difficulty, or annoyance; especially criticism or hostile treatment directed at someone.

Use it for

Words that belong together

• overwhelming grief
• private grief
• grief at a loss

On the page

Grief caught her while she was setting a second cup on the table.

He answered every practical question, keeping his grief out of his voice.

Years later, the smell of wet wool brought the grief back.

Usage notes

Primary category: gothic. May be quiet, angry, intermittent, or mixed with relief; not synonymous with fear or necessarily visible mourning. Usually substantial emotional pain; strength and duration vary, and it need not follow a neat sequence. Usually uncountable; plural griefs for distinct sorrows.