bereft
|be/reft|
C1
/bɪˈrɛft/
(bereave)
loss of a loved one
Etymology
Etymology Information
'bereft' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'bereafian,' where 'be-' meant 'thoroughly' and 'reafian' meant 'to rob or plunder.'
Historical Evolution
'bereafian' transformed into the Middle English word 'bereven,' and eventually became the modern English word 'bereave,' with 'bereft' as its past participle form.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to rob or plunder thoroughly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'deprived of something.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
deprived of or lacking something, especially a non-material asset.
She felt bereft of hope after the news.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40