distressed

[ dih-strest ]

adjective

1. showing or suffering from distress; worried or upset:

   They got a call from a distressed mother whose child had gone missing.

   We could tell from the distressed expression on his face that the news was bad.

2. characterized by poor conditions or lack of resources:

   The distressed economy has left many families struggling to make ends meet.

   More help is needed for schools in distressed neighborhoods.

3. (of merchandise or property for sale) damaged, out-of-date, or used:

   The library periodically sells off distressed books.

4. (of real estate) foreclosed and offered for sale:

   Some investors seek out distressed properties to buy at a low price and make a profit on.

5. (of furniture) purposely blemished or marred so as to give an antique appearance:

   The distressed wooden chest in the corner of the room added a touch of rustic charm.

6. (of fabric or clothing) made or processed to appear faded, wrinkled, frayed, or worn, as if from long, steady use:

   Our best-selling jeans are the ones in distressed denim.

distressed

/ dɪˈstrɛst /

adjective

1. much troubled; upset; afflicted
2. in financial straits; poor
3. (of furniture, fabric, etc) having signs of ageing artificially applied
4. economics another word for depressed

Other Words From

• dis·tress·ed·ly [dih-, stres, -id-lee], adverb
• dis·tress·ed·ness noun
• qua·si-dis·tressed adjective
• un·dis·tressed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of distressed¹

First recorded in 1580–90; distress + -ed ²

Example Sentences

It’s a sober assessment, albeit a distressed one.

From Los Angeles Times

In one chat group for gay kids and their parents, a distressed young man recently confided he had not heard from his mother since coming out to her a month earlier.

From Los Angeles Times

He also said when he was leaving Ms Hand wasn't distressed or upset.

From BBC

Mrs Burton, who has hearing loss, then saw Mr Thomas banging on her car window distressed.

From BBC

JD Wetherspoon said it had successfully dealt with many examples of distressed women using the scheme but would provide additional training if necessary.

From BBC

Related Words

• afflicted
• agitated
• anxious
• distraught
• jittery
• miffed
• perturbed
• shaky
• troubled