struggle

UK: ˈstrʌɡl | US: ˈstrʌɡl

Definition
  1. n. a forceful or violent effort to get free or achieve something

  2. vi. to make forceful efforts to overcome a challenge or resistance

  3. n. a prolonged difficult effort or contest

Structure

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Etymology

The word "struggle" originates from Middle English struglen, meaning "to contend or fight," likely derived from Old French estorguer ("to twist, wrench") or estruggle, though its exact roots are debated. It retains a sense of physical or mental effort against resistance, reflecting its historical association with conflict and exertion. The word's compact form suggests it evolved as a unified concept rather than a compound of separable morphemes.

Examples
  1. The protesters continued their struggle for equal rights.

  2. She struggled to lift the heavy box onto the shelf.

  3. The team faced a tough struggle in the final match.

  4. His early years were marked by financial struggles.

  5. The fish struggled violently before being reeled in.