bereaved
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /bɪˈriːvd/
KK: /bɪˈrivd/
adjective
Definition
Experiencing grief or sorrow due to the death of someone close.
Example
The bereaved family gathered to remember their loved one.
Conversation
I heard about your neighbor's loss; that must be tough for the bereaved family.
Yeah, it’s really sad. They were such a nice couple.
I can't imagine how hard it is for them right now.
Definitely, they could use all the support they can get.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grieving
mourning
sorrowful
Antonyms
rejoicing
unaffected
happy
noun
Definition
A person who has lost someone close to them, especially through death.
Example
The bereaved gathered to share their memories and support each other during this difficult time.
Conversation
I heard about the accident; it must be so hard for the bereaved.
Yeah, I can't imagine what they're going through right now.
It's important for us to be there for the bereaved during this tough time.
Root Explanation
Bereaved is derived from the past participle of the verb 'bereave', which comes from the Old English 'berēafian' (meaning to deprive or take away). The word 'bereaved' specifically refers to those who have been deprived of a loved one, particularly through death.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'deprived' ('bereave') of someone you love, which is why 'bereaved' refers to those who have lost a loved one.
Visually Confused Words
unbereaved
greaved
betread
beleave
begrave
bebrave