heartbreaking

[ hahrt-brey-king ]

adjective

1. causing intense anguish or sorrow.

Other Words From

• heartbreaking·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of heartbreaking¹

First recorded in 1600–10; heartbreak + -ing ²

Example Sentences

Andrew Friedman did such a spectacular job in shaping such a special team, it would verge on heartbreaking if he allows some of their important free-agent pieces to go their separate ways.

From Los Angeles Times

"It's heartbreaking and infuriating to see social media flooded with hateful comments when we should be celebrating love, pride, and unity," it said.

From BBC

He continued: "Young families with kids, they have no idea until they get here that they’ve lost their money and they’re not going to go on holiday - it’s absolutely heartbreaking."

From BBC

"We receive heartbreaking stories from families around the world affected by these diseases," says Igdoura.

From Science Daily

In scenes showing Dolours' commitment to the mission clashing with her affection for her friends, the actor’s stoic expressiveness is heartbreaking.

From Salon

Related Words

• affecting
• agonizing
• calamitous
• dire
• distressing
• heart-wrenching
• poignant
• sad
• touching
• tragic
• unfortunate