heartache

noun

heart·​ache ˈhärt-ˌāk How to pronounce heartache (audio)
: anguish of mind : sorrow

Examples of heartache in a Sentence

I've had more than my share of heartaches in my life. the heartache she felt when she saw the innocent victims of the war
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
After all his heartache, the 53-year-old actor took over the role of Lola from Porter in March 2015 and stayed with the Broadway production for an entire year before his eventual departure in March 2016. Emlyn Travis Published, EW.com, 4 July 2025 The horrific warfare that has enveloped the Middle East for the past 20 months has been a source of heartache for Israelis, Palestinians and so many others caught in the crossfire. Jason Nevarez, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 July 2025 Together, these forces have created a perfect storm of heartache, further fueling the dramatic rise in food insecurity across the country. Carmen Del Guercio, Baltimore Sun, 22 June 2025 Westbrook and Scott offer up amorous new songs while Watkins and Merlo each delve into non-linear trajectory of heartache’s aftermath. Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 2 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for heartache

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of heartache was in 1578

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Heartache.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heartache. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

heartache

noun
heart·​ache ˈhärt-ˌāk How to pronounce heartache (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on heartache

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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