The word "wretchedness" is spelled with 10 letters and is pronounced as /ˈrɛtʃɪdnəs/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "wretch" is pronounced as /rɛtʃ/ with a short "e" sound followed by a "tch" sound, and the second syllable "ed" is pronounced as /ɪd/ which is a short "i" sound followed by a "d" sound. The final syllable "ness" is pronounced as /nəs/ with a short "u" sound followed by "n" and "s" sounds. Overall, the word "wretchedness" means a state of extreme misery or unhappiness.
Wretchedness can be defined as a state or condition of extreme unhappiness, suffering, or misery. It represents a profound sense of despair, hopelessness, and distress that an individual or a group of people may experience. The term encompasses not only physical suffering but also emotional, mental, and social anguish.
In terms of physical wretchedness, this includes enduring pain, illness, or any form of bodily discomfort. It may also refer to living in squalid or deplorable conditions, lacking basic needs like food, water, shelter, or proper sanitation.
Emotional and mental wretchedness refers to the profound sense of sorrow, anguish, or grief that can come from various sources such as the loss of a loved one, a broken relationship, or a deep sense of personal failure. It can also arise from feelings of loneliness, abandonment, or alienation.
Social wretchedness involves the experience of marginalization, oppression, discrimination, or exclusion from society. It reflects the plight of those who face socioeconomic disparities, inequality, or deprivation, and who may lack access to resources, education, or opportunities to improve their circumstances.
Overall, wretchedness encapsulates the notion of profound and enduring suffering in its various forms and contexts, highlighting the dire consequences it inflicts upon individuals, communities, and societies.
Extreme misery or unhappiness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "wretchedness" comes from the Middle English term "wrechednesse", which is derived from the Old English word "wreccednes". In turn, "wreccednes" is derived from the Old English word "wrecche", meaning "wretch" or "exile". The Old English word "wrecche" further traces back to the Old English word "wrecan", which means "to drive out", "to punish", or "to banish". Ultimately, the word "wretchedness" evolved to describe the state of extreme unhappiness, suffering, or misery.