Harrowed

/ˈhæroʊd/ adjective

Definition

Deeply distressed, troubled, or tormented; emotionally worn from anxiety or pain.

Etymology

From the past tense of 'harrow' (to drag a harrow over land, or more commonly today, to cause emotional pain). The agricultural tool sense evolved into the emotional sense, comparing the painful raking of feelings to the raking of soil.

Kelly Says

When Shakespeare wrote about 'harrowed feelings' or 'harrowed souls,' audiences immediately got it—a harrow tears up the earth, just like anxiety tears up the mind. It's a brilliant metaphor that's been expressing emotional distress for 400+ years.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.