πίκρα
Wordform Details
Translation: bitternesssorrowgrief
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininesingularnominativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: πίκρα
Translation: bitterness; sorrow; grief; resentment (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek 'πικρός' (bitter). The root connects to the concept of pointed or sharp sensations, originally referring to a piercing taste sensation. This sensory meaning evolved metaphorically to encompass emotional pain and resentment, similar to how English 'bitter' developed both literal and emotional meanings.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'picker' (as in someone who picks on others) causing bitterness
- Picture drinking bitter 'pickle' juice - the face you make reflects πίκρα
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Frequently used in Greek literature and poetry to express deep emotional pain. Often appears in rebetiko songs and traditional Greek music expressing life's hardships.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: πίκρα is the noun (bitterness) while πικρός is the adjective (bitter)
This word:
Νιώθω πίκρα
I feel bitterness
Confused word:
Ο καφές είναι πικρός
The coffee is bitter
Notes: The noun form typically refers more to emotional bitterness than physical taste
Mnemonic: πίκρα ends in -α like many feminine nouns