Definition

Causing a lot of sadness or emotional pain.

Example

The movie had a heartrending story that made everyone cry.

Conversation

Did you watch that new movie last night?

Yeah, I did! It was so heartrending at the end.

I know, right? I didn't expect to feel so emotional.

Same here! I had to grab some tissues.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heartrending → It is formed from "heart" (from Old English "heorte", meaning the organ that pumps blood and also symbolizes emotion) and "-rending" (from the verb "rend", meaning to tear apart). The word "heartrending" describes something that tears at the heart, causing deep emotional pain or sorrow.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'tears apart' ('rend') your 'heart' — that's why heartrending means deeply emotional or painful.

Visually Confused Words