rhizoverbBeta
DictionarytribulationTrouble or suffering
noun

tribulation

trib-yuh-LAY-shun/ˌtrɪbjuˈleɪʃn/

Serious trouble, suffering, or hardship.

Their friendship gives them strength in times of tribulation.

An older woman sits in visible distress beside the flood-damaged doorway of her home, holding a soaked family photograph while another older woman comforts her.
Etymology
tribulLatinto press, oppress, afflict
+ationLatinaction or condition

Latin tribulare meant “press” and was used by Christian writers for oppressing or afflicting someone. Tribulation names suffering through that image of being subjected to pressure.

In context

Storytime Haven183:55
By suffering and tribulation the soul is cleansed, and the true victor may be he who by the patient endurance of misfortune merits
Sir Nigel ⚔️🌟 | A Tale of Chivalry and Adventure | Arthur Conan Doyle

More examples

  • She describes the tribulations of rebuilding her life after the flood.
  • After years of tribulation, the family finally found a safe home.
  • The memoir recounts his trials and tribulations during the war.

Forms

tribulation · tribulations

Similar words

hardship
Often emphasizes deprivation or difficult living conditions rather than anguish.
adversity
Emphasizes unfavorable circumstances rather than the suffering they cause.
ordeal
Usually names a particular painful experience that tests endurance.