distress

/dɪˈstrɛs/
verb
  1. To cause someone to feel very worried, sad, or upset.
    • It distressed him to see his friend so sick.
    • The teacher's harsh words distressed the student for the rest of the day.
    • The loud noise distressed the baby, and she started to cry.
Synonyms
Antonyms
noun
  1. A state of great worry, sadness, or pain.
    • The animal was clearly in distress, crying and limping along the road.
    • The news of the accident caused her great distress.
    • He tried to hide his distress, but his trembling hands gave him away.
  2. A situation of serious danger or difficulty that requires help.
    • The government declared a state of distress after the earthquake destroyed the city.
    • The hikers were in distress after getting lost in the mountains without food or water.
    • The ship sent out a signal of distress when it began to sink.