hardship

noun

hard·​ship ˈhärd-ˌship How to pronounce hardship (audio)
1
2
: something that causes or entails suffering or privation

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 Despite these hardships, the 1920 Olympics are still recognized for their lasting contributions to sport, gender equality, unity, and peace. Tim Genske, Forbes, 25 Sep. 2024 The Lions also raised money to assemble supplemental school meals for children facing financial hardship. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 25 Sep. 2024 Despite the hardships of getting his solo career off the ground, raising a young family with little income, and the tragedy of deportation hitting close to home, Atta-Owusu finds success in unexpected places. Mankaprr Conteh, Rolling Stone, 25 Sep. 2024 Whatever their dreams, the couple is not excused from making sure that implementing them will not be a hardship for their families and guests. Judith Martin, The Mercury News, 23 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hardship 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hardship.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of hardship was in the 13th century

Dictionary Entries Near hardship

Cite this Entry

“Hardship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hardship. Accessed 9 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

hardship

noun
hard·​ship ˈhärd-ˌship How to pronounce hardship (audio)
1
2
: something that causes pain or loss

More from Merriam-Webster on hardship

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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