1. The objective state of having lost someone or something precious; the objective situation of individuals who have experienced a loss.
2. The period after loss during which grief is experienced and mourning occurs.
3. The entire process precipitated by a loss or death.
Definition of Bereave
1. To leave desolate or alone, especially by death.
Other Forms
Bereaved, Bereft
Often used interchangeably with:
Grief, Grieving, Mourning, Mourn
Related Terms: Bereavement Overload, bereave
Sources:
National Cancer Institute. Loss, Grief, and Bereavement (PDQ®) 2005. Health Professional Version. Available at: http://www.nci.nih.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/bereavement/HealthProfessional/page1
DeSpelder LA. Strickland AL. 2005. The Last Dance: Encountering Death and Dying. 7th Edition. New York, N.Y.: McGraw Hill.
Corr CA. Nabe CM. Corr DM. 2003. Death and Dying Life and Living. 4th Edition. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Thomson Learning Publishing Co.
