What does tribulation mean?
Tribulation is a formal noun meaning severe hardship, suffering, or adversity. It is often used for difficulties that are prolonged, repeated, or deeply distressing, and it frequently appears in religious, historical, and literary contexts. The plural form, tribulations, is especially common when referring to a series of ordeals or to the collective difficulties of a person or community. In modern usage, the word conveys more weight than hardship or difficulty because it suggests suffering that tests endurance or faith. It is appropriate in serious prose, historical narrative, and formal reflection, though it may sound elevated or old-fashioned in ordinary conversation. The word is recognizable in both British and American English. Its history reinforces its sense of pressure and adversity: it ultimately derives from Latin words associated with pressing, afflicting, and tormenting. Thus, tribulation names not merely an inconvenience but a formidable trial.
nounA state of great hardship, distress, or adversity, especially one that is prolonged or severe.
- Severe, prolonged, or distressing hardship or adversity.
"She remained steadfast through years of tribulation and loss."
"The community offered practical support to families facing tribulation after the disaster."
"He spoke of the spiritual tribulations that had shaped his early life."
The plural is common and emphasizes multiple hardships, trials, or prolonged adversity.
"The memoir recounts the many tribulations the family faced after leaving their homeland."
From Latin for pressing or tormenting, tribulation is suffering that puts a person under pressure.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does tribulation come from?
Tribulation entered Middle English through Old French tribulacion, which derived from Latin tribulatio, a noun meaning persecution, affliction, or torment. The Latin word came from tribulare, associated with pressing, afflicting, or torturing. Related English forms include tribulate and tribulatory, while tribulum preserves the same Latin root in a technical sense. The modern word retains its serious and often elevated character, especially in religious and historical contexts.
Related word forms
How tribulation is actually used
A formal word with strong religious, literary, and historical associations. It often implies hardship that tests or purifies the sufferer, and is frequently used in the plural.