Definition

Relating to or resulting from a deeply distressing or disturbing experience.

Example

The accident was a traumatic event for everyone involved.

Conversation

I heard you had a traumatic experience last week.

Yeah, it was really tough to deal with at first.

I'm sorry to hear that; do you want to talk about it?

Maybe later, but I'm trying to focus on the positive things now.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Traumatic → It is formed from "trauma" (from Greek "trauma", meaning wound or injury) and the suffix "-tic" (meaning relating to). The word "traumatic" refers to something that is related to or caused by a wound or injury, often in a psychological context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'trauma' as a 'wound' and remember that 'traumatic' describes something related to that wound, especially in terms of emotional or psychological impact.

Visually Confused Words