adjective

distraught

/dɪˈstrɔːt/ · say it: dis·TRAWT

deeply upset and agitated

In Emotions & Moods

In more detail

1. (adjective) extremely upset, worried, or confused and unable to think clearly

Examples

She was distraught when she heard the news of the accident.

How to use distraught

Distraught describes a state of acute emotional turmoil where someone loses composure and mental clarity, often due to grief, anxiety, or distressing news. It is stronger than merely upset and implies visible signs of disturbance; it is more literary and formal than colloquial words like frazzled or stressed out.

Common phrases

distraught mother
distraught over
distraught with worry
appear distraught
look distraught

Synonyms

distressed · frantic · anguished · overwrought · agitated

Opposites

calm · composed · serene

Word family

distraught (adjective only)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use distraught as a verb (e.g., 'she distraught'), when it functions only as an adjective. It should always describe a state: 'she was distraught' or 'distraught about the decision.'

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