bereave

UK: bɪˈriːv | US: bɪˈriv

Definition

  1. vt. to deprive someone of a loved one, typically through death

  2. vt. (archaic) to take away something valuable or important

Structure
be <thoroughly>reave <to seize>be <thoroughly>reave <to seize>
Etymology

Originally meaning "to rob or plunder," bereave evolved in Middle English to emphasize the emotional weight of being deprived, especially of loved ones. The prefix be- amplifies the sense of total loss, shifting the word’s focus from physical theft to emotional devastation.

Examples

  1. The accident bereaved her of her only son.

  2. War bereaved countless families of their homes.

  3. (Archaic) The invaders bereaved the village of its treasures.

  4. Grief overwhelmed the bereaved parents.

  5. The pandemic bereaved many of their closest relatives.