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distress

1 distress /dɪˈstrɛs/ noun
1 distress
/dɪˈstrɛs/
noun
Britannica Dictionary definition of DISTRESS
[noncount]
: unhappiness or pain : suffering that affects the mind or body
: a very difficult situation in which you do not have enough money, food, etc.
of a boat, airplane, etc. : a state of danger or desperate need

damsel in distress

see damsel
2 distress /dɪˈstrɛs/ verb
distresses; distressed; distressing
2 distress
/dɪˈstrɛs/
verb
distresses; distressed; distressing
Britannica Dictionary definition of DISTRESS
[+ object]
: to worry or upset (someone) usually used as (be) distressed

— distressing

adjective [more distressing; most distressing]

— distressingly

adverb