heartbreaking
UK: ˈhɑːtˌbreɪkɪŋ | US: ˈhɑːrtˌbreɪkɪŋ
adj. causing intense sadness or emotional pain
adj. deeply distressing or sorrowful
The word "heartbreaking" combines "heart," symbolizing emotion and vitality, with "break," implying destruction or fracture. The suffix "-ing" transforms it into an adjective. Historically, the heart has been metaphorically linked to love and sorrow (e.g., "broken heart" dates to Middle English). The compound emerged in the 16th century, vividly depicting emotional devastation as if the heart were physically shattered.
The documentary about orphaned children was truly heartbreaking.
She received heartbreaking news of her grandfather’s passing.
His apology letter was so heartfelt it became heartbreaking.
The novel’s ending left readers in heartbreaking silence.
Witnessing the abandoned pets was a heartbreaking experience.