# harrowing

/ˈhɛɹoʊɪŋ/ (US) · /hˈæɹəʊɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/harrowing
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

extremely upsetting, scary, or painful to experience. It describes something that is very difficult to go through because it causes a lot of stress.

For teachers: acutely distressing or painful to the mind or feelings. Often used to describe traumatic events, journeys, or personal accounts.

## Examples

- The survivors told a harrowing story of their escape.
- The documentary provides a harrowing look at the lives of refugees crossing the desert in search of safety.
- After a harrowing week lost in the wilderness without supplies, the hikers were finally spotted by a rescue helicopter just before sunset.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun like 'experience', 'tale', or 'ordeal'.

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