Word of the Day

: September 15, 2021

tribulation

noun trib-yuh-LAY-shun

What It Means

Tribulation, which is often used in the phrase "trials and tribulations," refers to a trying experience. It can also mean "unhappiness, pain, or suffering."

// The young, ambitious chef knew of trials and tribulations of opening a new restaurant, but he was ready for the undertaking.

// Her son's illness has been a source of great tribulation.

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tribulation in Context

"On the road to meet his destiny, Gawain must face a series of fearsome trials, tribulations and temptations as he gradually learns the true nature of chivalry." — Susan Granger, The Westport (Connecticut) News, 13 Aug.2021

Did You Know?

The writer and Christian scholar Thomas More, in his 1534 work A dialoge of comforte against tribulation, defined the title word as "euery such thing as troubleth and greueth [grieveth] a man either in bodye or mynde." These days, however, the word tribulation is commonly used as a plural noun, paired with trials, and relates less to oppression and more to any kind of uphill struggle. Tribulation comes from a Latin noun meaning "threshing board."