hardship

noun

hard·​ship ˈhärd-ˌship 

1

: privation, suffering

2

: something that causes or entails suffering or privation

Synonyms

• adversity
• asperity
• difficulty
• hardness
• rigor

Examples of hardship in a Sentence

He had suffered through considerable hardship.

The city has been experiencing a period of financial hardship.

They had to endure the hardships of life on the frontier.

Recent Examples on the Web

Her writing style combines careful historical detail with moving personal recollection, allowing readers to vicariously experience the grueling training, camaraderie, and hardships of St. Gertrude's Hospital School of Nursing’s nursing students, more commonly referred to as St. Trudy's students. —Sixteen Ramos, USA Today, 9 May 2025

This is a sweet story all about family legacy, authentic food, and fighting to preserve both in the face of hardship. —Devonne Goode, Parents, 8 May 2025

Despite the hardship, life on the beautiful, windswept island almost feels like paradise. —Leo Barraclough, Variety, 7 May 2025

These barriers often perpetuate a cycle of hardship that hinders full reintegration into society, increases the risk of recidivism and undermines public safety. —Robert Melvin, Baltimore Sun, 7 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

hardship

noun

hard·​ship ˈhärd-ˌship 

1

: pain entry 1 sense 2a, privation

2

: something that causes pain or loss