Word of the Day
: September 15, 2021tribulation
playWhat It Means
Tribulation, which is often used in the phrase "trials and tribulations," refers to a trying experience. It can also mean "unhappiness, pain, or suffering."
// The young, ambitious chef knew of trials and tribulations of opening a new restaurant, but he was ready for the undertaking.
// Her son's illness has been a source of great tribulation.
tribulation in Context
"On the road to meet his destiny, Gawain must face a series of fearsome trials, tribulations and temptations as he gradually learns the true nature of chivalry." — Susan Granger, The Westport (Connecticut) News, 13 Aug.2021
Did You Know?
The writer and Christian scholar Thomas More, in his 1534 work A dialoge of comforte against tribulation, defined the title word as "euery such thing as troubleth and greueth [grieveth] a man either in bodye or mynde." These days, however, the word tribulation is commonly used as a plural noun, paired with trials, and relates less to oppression and more to any kind of uphill struggle. Tribulation comes from a Latin noun meaning "threshing board."
Test Your Vocabulary with M-W Quizzes
Quiz
What 5-letter word refers to a strong, sudden attack and also to the act of firing several guns or bombs at the same time?
VIEW THE ANSWER
