Misery

Definition

Misery refers to a state of great suffering due to unhappiness, poverty, or pain.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪzəri/
• Respelling: MIZ-uh-ree (with "MIZ" as in "miss," "uh" as in "sofa," and "ree" as in "tree")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪzəri/
• Respelling: MIZ-uh-ree (with "MIZ" as in "miss," "uh" as in "sofa," and "ree" as in "tree")

In both dialects, "misery" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "MIZ." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "MIZ-uh-ree."

Etymology

The term "misery" originates from the Middle English word "miserie", derived from the Old French "misere", from Latin "misēria", based on "miser", which means "unhappy" or "wretched".

Derivatives

• Miser
• Miserable
• Miserably
• Miserliness
• Miserly

Synonyms

• Suffering
• Distress
• Wretchedness

Antonyms

• Joy
• Bliss
• Happiness

Usage

"Misery" is commonly used to describe a situation or condition that is characterized by intense suffering or discomfort.

• Poverty and famine have brought misery to millions of people worldwide.
• She expressed her misery after the loss of her pet.

Related Terms

• Despondency
• Desolation
• Anguish
• Torment
• Despair

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A State of Great Suffering or Distress: A condition in which there is extreme unhappiness often due to unfortunate circumstances.‍
• Example: The floods left the inhabitants in utter misery.

• A Cause or Source of Suffering: Situations, conditions, or people that cause great pain, unhappiness, or discomfort.‍
• Example: Poverty is a major misery in many parts of the world.

• Extreme Discomfort: Physical or mental discomfort often resulting in suffering.‍
• Example: The disease inflicted him with intense misery.