distressed
UK: dɪˈstrest | US: dɪˈstrest
adj. suffering from extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain
adj. (of furniture or clothing) intentionally made to look old or worn
vt. (past tense of distress) caused anguish or hardship
The word "distressed" originates from the Old French "destrecier" (to constrain, oppress), combining Latin "dis-" (apart) and "strictus" (tightened). The morpheme "stress" evolved from Latin "strictus," reflecting physical or emotional tension. Over time, "distressed" expanded from literal oppression to psychological suffering and later adopted a stylistic sense in design (e.g., "distressed jeans"). The suffix "-ed" marks its adjectival form.
She looked distressed after hearing the bad news.
The distressed leather sofa added a rustic charm to the room.
The ship's crew was distressed by the sudden storm.
He distressed the wooden table to give it a vintage appearance.
Financial problems left the family deeply distressed.