Harrower

A harrower is a person or thing that inflicts significant mental or emotional distress, causing torment, suffering, or anguish. This can manifest through actions, words, or circumstances that deeply affect an individual's well-being, leaving them feeling burdened, oppressed, or broken. The impact of a harrower is characterized by a sense of profound disturbance and often involves a prolonged period of emotional recovery. A harrower can be a person or thing capable of causing significant mental or emotional suffering.

Harrower meaning with examples

• The relentless criticism from her supervisor transformed him into a mental harrower, each negative comment chipping away at his self-esteem. His confidence crumbled under the weight of constant judgment, leaving him dreading each day at work. This constant negativity profoundly affected his overall morale, making it difficult to focus on the task at hand and preventing him from contributing in the ways he should have been.
• The memories of his wartime experiences became a constant mental harrower, resurfacing at unpredictable moments and triggering flashbacks. He struggled to find peace, haunted by the sights and sounds of conflict. The trauma permeated his dreams and awakened him with such force that he was constantly fighting for sleep, causing him to isolate himself from his loved ones.
• The economic downturn proved a severe societal harrower, causing widespread job losses and financial insecurity. Many families faced foreclosure, leaving them with a profound sense of hopelessness and despair. Communities struggled to support their members, as the effects of poverty and hunger were felt by almost every household, and society struggled to adapt to the changing times.
• The novel's antagonist was a manipulative character who served as a emotional harrower for the protagonist, constantly undermining her confidence. His subtle taunts and belittling remarks kept her in a state of anxiety, affecting her every decision and leaving her in a place of helplessness. The emotional manipulation was designed to break her down and cause her to submit to his demands.