devastated
DEH-vuh-stay-tid
/ˈdɛvəsteɪtɪd/
Severely overwhelmed by shock or grief.
A very strong word; it suggests that one's entire emotional world has been leveled.
The story behind the word. From 'de-' (completely) and 'vastare' (to make empty or waste). Originally used to describe the destruction of cities in war, it was later applied to the internal 'wasteland' created by grief.
Word relationships
- shattered: Shattered implies being broken into pieces; devastated implies being leveled or laid waste.
- heartbroken: Heartbroken is specific to love; devastated can apply to any major loss.
- elated: Elated is extreme happiness; devastated is extreme sorrow.
- indifferent: Indifferent means not caring; devastated means caring so much it hurts.
Commonly confused with
- upset: Upset is a mild emotional disturbance; devastated is a total emotional collapse.
Word family
- devastation (noun): Great destruction or emotional shock.
- devastating (adjective): Causing severe shock or grief.
Collocations
- absolutely devastated
- utterly devastated
- left devastated
Example sentences
- "She was absolutely devastated when he ended their three-year relationship without warning." Reacting to a sudden breakup.
- "The community was devastated by the loss of such a vibrant young soul." A quote about loss.
Memory hook
Devastated is like a 'vast' empty desert of sadness. Devastated = De-Vast (Destroyed and Vastly empty).
When not to use
Avoid using it for minor disappointments (e.g., 'I was devastated they ran out of cake').
Fun facts
- The word 'vast' and 'waste' are both related to the root of devastated.
Related words
Explore more words
devastation, catastrophic, desolation, inconsolable, desolate, despondent
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