Harrowing Meaning and Definition
Harrowing
Pronunciation
/ˈhærəʊɪŋ/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Extremely distressing or unsettling; causing intense fear, anxiety, or unease.
Examples
- The harrowing experience left her shaken.
- The movie had a harrowing ending that left the audience in shock.
Synonyms
- Traumatic
- Frightening
- Alarming
Antonyms
- Comforting
- Reassuring
- Soothing
Additional Information
The term “harrowing” is often used to describe experiences that are deeply unsettling or disturbing, such as a near-death experience or a traumatic event. It can also be used to describe a situation that is extremely difficult or trying, such as a harrowing journey or a harrowing decision.
In some cases, the term “harrowing” can be used to describe a work of art or literature that is intentionally disturbing or unsettling, such as a harrowing novel or a harrowing film. This can be used to convey a sense of emotional intensity or to explore themes that are difficult or uncomfortable.
Etymology
The word “harrowing” comes from the Old English word “harwian”, which means “to distress or afflict”. This word is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*harwjō”, which is related to the Proto-Indo-European root “*ker-“, meaning “to cut” or “to wound”. This root is also seen in other English words such as “harrow”, which refers to a farm tool used to break up soil.
Usage Notes
The term “harrowing” is often used to add emphasis to a description, such as “a harrowing experience” or “a harrowing journey”. It can also be used to describe a situation that is ongoing or protracted, such as “a harrowing few weeks” or “a harrowing month”.
Cultural References
The term “harrowing” has been used in popular culture to describe a range of experiences, from the harrowing journey of a fictional character to the harrowing events of a real-life disaster.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Go through a harrowing experience”: to undergo a traumatic or distressing event.
- “Have a harrowing time”: to have a difficult or trying period.
Related Words or Phrases
- Traumatic
- Frightening
- Alarming
- Distressing
Collocations
- “Harrowing experience”
- “Harrowing journey”
- “Harrowing decision”
Frequency of Use
The term “harrowing” is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but it is often used in written language, such as in literature, journalism, and formal writing.