Meaning of 'distress'

noun

the seizure and holding of property as security for payment of a debt or satisfaction of a claim

Example: "Originally distress was a landlord's remedy against a tenant for unpaid rents or property damage but now the landlord is given a landlord's lien"

Synonyms: distraint

noun

psychological suffering

Example: "The death of their sibling caused them great distress."

Synonyms: hurt suffering

noun

extreme physical pain

Example: "The patient appeared to be in distress."

noun

a state of adversity (danger or affliction or need)

Example: "a ship in distress"

verb

cause mental pain to

Example: "I was distressed by the news of my grandparent's illness."

verb

bring into difficulties or distress, especially financial hardship

Synonyms: straiten