Definition

A person who takes away someone’s loved ones, often through death or loss.

Example

The bereaver felt the weight of their loss deeply as they remembered their loved one.

Conversation

I heard that Sarah lost her grandmother last week.

That's really sad. She must feel like a true bereaver right now.

Yeah, it's tough to lose someone you love.

I hope she has support from friends and family during this time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bereaver is formed from "be-" (meaning thoroughly) and "reave" (from Old English "rēafian", meaning to rob or seize). The word describes someone who thoroughly robs or takes away from another.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'thoroughly' ('be-') 'robs' ('reave') another person — that's why bereaver means to take away from someone.

Visually Confused Words