Definition

A type of speech or writing that expresses deep sadness or complaints about something, often predicting bad outcomes.

Example

The politician's jeremiad warned of the dangers facing the community if changes were not made.

Conversation

Did you hear that speech at the meeting yesterday?

Yeah, it felt like a real jeremiad about our future.

Exactly! I couldn't believe how negative the tone was.

Right? It made me wonder if they have any solutions or just complaints.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Jeremiad is derived from the name "Jeremiah" (from Hebrew "Yirmiyahu", meaning appointed by God) and the suffix "-iad" (meaning a poetic or literary work). The term refers to a long, mournful complaint or lamentation, often in a prophetic context, similar to the lamentations found in the Book of Jeremiah in the Bible.

Memory Tip

Think of the prophet Jeremiah, who expressed deep sorrow and lamentation, to remember that a jeremiad is a lengthy complaint or lament.

Visually Confused Words