distress distress /dɪˈstrɛs/

noun

1. () Psychological suffering  ( hurt , distress , suffering )
   psychological suffering
    The death of his wife caused him great distress
   the death of his wife caused him great distress
   
2. () A state of adversity (danger, affliction or need)  ( distress )
   a state of adversity (danger, affliction or need)
    A ship in distress
   a ship in distress
    She was the classic maiden in distress
   she was the classic maiden in distress
   
3. The seizure and holding of property as security for payment of a debt or satisfaction of a claim  ( distraint , distress )
   the seizure and holding of property as security for payment of a debt or satisfaction of a claim
    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
   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
   
4. Extreme physical pain  ( distress )
   extreme physical pain
    The patient appeared to be in distress
   the patient appeared to be in distress
   

verb

1. Cause mental pain to  ( distress )
   cause mental pain to
    The news of her child's illness distressed the mother
   The news of her child's illness distressed the mother
   
2. Bring into difficulties or distress, especially financial hardship  ( distress , straiten )
   bring into difficulties or distress, especially financial hardship