harrowing
An experience that's extremely distressing or disturbing is harrowing.
The word "harrowing" usually refers to something that affects people very deeply and can leave them feeling shaken or traumatized. This can happen when they witness or go through a terrible event, such as a natural disaster, an accident, or even just hearing about someone else's traumatic experience. For example, if you read a story about a war that was really upsetting to the soldiers involved, it might be described as harrowing. It's also used to describe situations where people are put in extreme danger, like being caught in a violent situation or experiencing something that threatens their life.
How common is "harrowing"?
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
verb
To drag a harrow over; to break up with a harrow.
noun
The process of breaking up earth with a harrow.
Example: The field received two harrowings.
adjective
Causing pain or distress.
Real examples of "harrowing" in context
