A tear-shedder is a person, or thing, that frequently expresses or elicits sadness, grief, or strong emotion, often leading to the shedding of tears. This can apply to individuals known for their sensitivity, works of art designed to evoke pathos, or events that trigger widespread emotional responses. The term emphasizes the capacity to induce a state of emotional vulnerability and the physical manifestation of that emotion through tears. The tear-shedder’s impact is marked by its ability to connect with feelings deeply within others and to create a palpable atmosphere of sorrow, empathy, or even overwhelming joy that produces crying.
Tear-shedder meaning with examples
- The old woman, a known tear-shedder, began to weep openly when the memorial service played her late husband’s favorite song. Her emotional nature made her a frequent visitor to the tissue box at every gathering, but her grief was palpable and universally understood. Friends comforted her, recognizing her deep capacity for feeling and her struggle with loss was something everyone empathized with.
- The tragic novel quickly became a tear-shedder for book clubs everywhere, as the poignant story of lost love and betrayal resonated deeply with readers. Its unflinching portrayal of human suffering, the devastating heartbreak of the characters, and the beautiful prose combined to create an affecting piece of literature that had readers reaching for tissues, and discussing for weeks.
- The film, a notorious tear-shedder, featured a heartbreaking storyline centered around the sacrifice of a father for his child, leaving audiences in floods of tears. The music, cinematography, and acting all contributed to a powerfully affecting movie. Its emotionally charged scenes and resonant themes solidified its reputation as one of the most emotionally charged movies of the year, even making some of its viewers ashamed to cry.
- The concert, unexpectedly turned into a tear-shedder when the singer dedicated his performance to victims of a recent tragedy, singing a song they co-wrote. The atmosphere shifted from joyous celebration to a collective outpouring of emotion. Many in the audience, experiencing this moment of shared vulnerability, wiped tears, and the emotional resonance was a powerful reminder of human connection in the face of shared loss and suffering.