bereave
|be-reave|
C1
/bɪˈriːv/
loss of a loved one
Etymology
Etymology Information
'bereave' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'berēafian,' where 'be-' meant 'thoroughly' and 'rēafian' meant 'to rob or plunder.'
Historical Evolution
'berēafian' transformed into the Middle English word 'bereven,' and eventually became the modern English word 'bereave.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to rob or plunder,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to deprive someone of something, especially through death.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to deprive someone of something, especially a loved one, through death.
The family was bereaved of their beloved grandmother.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 19:25