deprived of or lacking something, especially a nonmaterial asset, sad and lonely, especially through someone's death or departure

bereft of hope, bereft of life, bereft of senses

Formal and Informal Expressions of bereft

In different contexts, you can replace 'bereft' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'deprived, lacking' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'empty-handed, down-and-out' is a commonplace synonym.

bereft: Explore its Definition & Usage

bereft Definition

1deprived of or lacking something, especially a nonmaterial asset
2sad and lonely, especially through someone's death or departure

Using bereft: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "bereft" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The earthquake left the city bereft of electricity and water.
Example
She felt bereft after her husband's death.
Example
The company was bereft of ideas for new products.
Example
The child looked bereft when his mother left him at the daycare.

bereft Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for bereft

Antonyms for bereft

Phrases with bereft

bereft of hope
completely lacking in hope
Example
The refugees were bereft of hope after years of living in camps.
bereft of life
dead
Example
The bird was lying on the ground, bereft of life.
bereft of senses
in a state of confusion or disorientation
Example
After the accident, he was bereft of his senses for a few minutes.

Origins of bereft

from Old English 'berēafian', meaning 'to deprive'

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Summary: bereft in Brief

The adjective 'bereft' [bɪˈrɛft] describes being deprived of something, often nonmaterial, and feeling sad and lonely, especially through someone's death or departure. Examples include 'The earthquake left the city bereft of electricity and water.' and 'She felt bereft after her husband's death.' The phrase 'bereft of hope' denotes complete lack of hope, while 'bereft of life' means dead.