Definition

In a way that causes deep sadness or emotional pain.

Example

The movie ended heartrendingly, leaving the audience in tears.

Conversation

Did you watch that new movie everyone is talking about?

Yeah, it was heartrendingly beautiful, I couldn’t stop crying.

I know, right? The story was so touching.

Absolutely, it really stays with you long after it ends.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heartrendingly → 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) combined with the adverbial suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "heartrendingly" describes something done in a way that tears at the heart, evoking deep emotional pain or sorrow.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'tears' ('rend') at your 'heart' — that's why heartrendingly means in a way that causes deep emotional pain.

Visually Confused Words