bereavement
bih-REEV-munt
/bɪˈriːv.mənt/
The state of deprivation and grief following the death of a loved one.
Refers specifically to the state or period of loss caused by death, distinct from general sadness.
The story behind the word. In Old English, 'bereafian' meant to violently strip someone of property or clothing. Over time, the word narrowed to describe the ultimate robbery: death stripping away a loved one.
Word relationships
- loss: Loss is broader and can refer to non-fatal deprivations.
- mourning: Mourning emphasizes the cultural practices and expression of grief following loss.
- conception: Refers to the start of life or creation.
- restoration: Refers to the act of returning or giving back what was lost.
Commonly confused with
- grief: Grief is the emotional response inside, whereas bereavement is the state of having suffered a death loss.
Word family
- bereaved (adjective): Deprived of a loved one through death.
- bereave (verb): To deprive of a close relation or friend through death.
Collocations
- bereavement leave
- period of bereavement
- cope with bereavement
- bereavement counseling
Idioms & expressions
- stricken by loss
Example sentences
- "Employees are entitled to up to five days of paid bereavement leave following the loss of an immediate family member." HR policy document
- "Navigating bereavement requires time, social support, and gentle self-compassion." Psychological study
Memory hook
BE REFT of everything after someone leaves—bereavement is being robbed by death. Robbed by death.
When not to use
Do not use for minor losses like losing a wallet or a job.
Fun facts
- 'Bereft' and 'bereaved' share the same root, but 'bereft' can apply to abstract things (e.g., bereft of ideas).
Explore more words
solace, devastation, condolence, deprivation, homesick, despair
Also appears in
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