distressing
UK: dɪˈstresɪŋ | US: dɪˈstresɪŋ
adj. causing anxiety, sorrow, or pain
vt. (present participle of "distress") the act of causing someone to feel extreme worry or suffering
The word "distressing" originates from the Old French "destresser" (to constrain, oppress), which combines the Latin prefix "dis-" (expressing negation or reversal) and "strictus" (drawn tight, compressed). Over time, "stress" evolved to signify mental or emotional strain, and the suffix "-ing" forms the present participle or adjective. The logic reflects a progression from physical constraint ("stressed") to emotional suffering ("distressed").
The news of the accident was deeply distressing to everyone.
She found the constant noise distressing and couldn’t focus.
The documentary highlighted the distressing conditions in refugee camps.
His distressing behavior alarmed his friends.
The therapist helped her cope with distressing memories.