Definition

Feeling very sad and unhappy, especially because of a loss or disappointment.

Example

After the breakup, she felt completely brokenhearted.

Conversation

I saw Sarah today, and she looked really brokenhearted.

Yeah, I heard about the breakup; it's tough for her.

It's hard to see a friend so brokenhearted like that.

I know, we should do something nice for her to cheer her up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Brokenhearted → It is formed from "broken" (the past participle of "break", from Old English "brecan", meaning to shatter or destroy) and "hearted" (from "heart", which comes from Old English "heorte", meaning the organ of emotion). The word "brokenhearted" describes a state of emotional distress or sorrow, as if one's heart has been shattered.

Memory Tip

Think of a heart that has been 'shattered' ('broken') and is filled with deep 'emotion' ('hearted'). This helps you remember that 'brokenhearted' means feeling deep sorrow.

Visually Confused Words