hardship

UK: ˈhɑːdʃɪp | US: ˈhɑːrdʃɪp

Definition

  1. n. severe suffering or privation

  2. n. a circumstance that causes difficulty or suffering

Structure
hard <firm, difficult>ship <noun suffix indicating state or condition>
Etymology

The word "hardship" combines "hard," derived from Old English "heard" (meaning solid, severe, or difficult), with the suffix "-ship," from Old English "-scipe" (denoting a state or condition). Originally, "-ship" was used to form abstract nouns (e.g., "friendship," "ownership"). Over time, "hardship" evolved to specifically describe a state of enduring difficulty or adversity, reflecting the literal and figurative weight of "hard."

Examples

  1. The pioneers endured great hardship while crossing the mountains.

  2. Financial hardship forced him to sell his home.

  3. War brings immense hardship to civilians.

  4. She overcame years of hardship to achieve success.

  5. The charity supports families facing economic hardship.