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distressed

adjective

dis·​tressed di-ˈstrest How to pronounce distressed (audio)
Synonyms of distressednext
: of, relating to, or experiencing economic decline or difficulty
federal grants for distressed cities

Examples of distressed in a Sentence

She felt emotionally and physically distressed. The government provided funds to the economically distressed city. Donations were given to financially distressed families.
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.
While the deeply discounted (in a luxuriously distressed camel leather) is another stand out deal at 50% off its original pricing. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 1 Dec. 2025 It’s designed to have a distressed look that will disguise dirt and debris. Shea Simmons, PEOPLE, 1 Dec. 2025 Loloi Millie Blue/Multi Area Rug This area rug adds a pop of color to spaces and is purposefully distressed with an antique look that won’t show wear and tear. Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 28 Nov. 2025 Most of these genuine picks come in under $500 (a real rarity for leather), and Quince’s distressed pick is $50 cheaper than usual. Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 28 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for distressed

Word History

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of distressed was in 1613

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Cite this Entry

“Distressed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/distressed. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

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