bereft
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /bɪˈrɛft/
KK: /bɪˈrɛft/
adjective
Definition
Deprived of something or feeling a deep sense of loss, especially after the death of a loved one.
Example
After the storm, the town was bereft of its usual cheerfulness.
Conversation
I felt so bereft after my dog passed away.
I'm really sorry to hear that; losing a pet is so hard.
Yeah, it feels like a part of me is missing.
Take your time to grieve; it's completely normal to feel that way.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
deprived
bereaved
lacking
Antonyms
fulfilled
rich
abundant
verb
Definition
To be deprived of something or someone important, often resulting in a feeling of loss or emptiness.
Example
After the storm, the village was bereft of trees and shelter.
Tense Forms
Past: bereft
Past Participle: bereft
Conversation
I felt so bereft after my dog passed away.
I’m really sorry to hear that. Losing a pet is tough.
Yeah, it’s like a part of my daily routine is gone.
Root Explanation
Bereft is derived from the Old English 'bereftan' (meaning to rob or deprive). The word describes a state of being deprived of something, especially a loved one or something cherished.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'deprived' ('bereftan') of something important, which helps you remember that 'bereft' means to be without or lacking something.
Visually Confused Words
unbereft
berret
befret
reft
bret
bert
beet
beef