Main Entry: trib·u·la·tion

Pronunciation: \ˌtri-byə-ˈlā-shən\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English tribulacion, from Anglo-French, from Latin tribulation-, tribulatio, from tribulare to press, oppress, from tribulum drag used in threshing, from terere to rub — more at throw

Date: 13th century

: distress or suffering resulting from oppression or persecution; also : a trying experience <the trials and tribulations of starting a new business>