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Definition of heartbreak

heartbreak

/ˈhɑːrt.breɪk/
heart · break
Adverb:heartbreakingly
•
Plural:heartbreaks
•
Adjective:heartbreaking
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heartbreak Lexical Profile

heartbreak Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Overwhelming emotional distress, sorrow, or grief, especially that caused by romantic rejection, loss, or bitter disappointment.

Example

"She wrote several poignant songs to process her heartbreak after the sudden end of her marriage."

2

An event, experience, or disappointment that causes intense sorrow or emotional pain.

Example

"Losing the championship in the final seconds was the biggest heartbreak of the coach's career."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for heartbreak

• Nearby Words

heart
heartache
heartbeat
heartbreak
heartbreaker
heartbreaking
heartbreakingly

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 14th century as a compound of 'heart' and 'break', reflecting the ancient metaphorical belief that overwhelming sorrow or romantic rejection could physically rupture the heart.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Heartbreak. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/heartbreak
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