heartache

noun

heart·​ache ˈhärt-ˌāk How to pronounce heartache (audio)
Synonyms of heartachenext
: anguish of mind : sorrow

Synonyms of heartache

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Examples of heartache in a Sentence

I've had more than my share of heartaches in my life. the heartache she felt when she saw the innocent victims of the war
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But there is still constant heartache. — Natalia Jaramillo, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 June 2026 The journey involves heartache and self-doubt. — Steve Buckley, New York Times, 23 June 2026 Even a solitary bamboo shutter drawn between friends may cause heartache. — Literary Hub, 28 May 2026 Leonhard-Hooper’s script is ovaries-to-the-wall zany, but there’s disturbance and heartache in it, too. — Sara Holdren, Vulture, 14 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for heartache

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of heartache was in 1578

Rhymes for heartache

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Browse Nearby Words

heart's desire
heartache
heart and soul
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Cite this Entry

“Heartache.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heartache. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on heartache

Nglish: Translation of heartache for Spanish Speakers

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