Distraught is an adjective that describes a state of being extremely upset, anxious or distressed. It can be used to describe someone who is feeling overwhelmed with emotions such as sadness, fear, anger or grief and may show physical signs of their distress like crying, trembling or having trouble breathing. The word "distraught" implies a sense of helplessness or despair and can be used to describe someone who is experiencing a traumatic event or loss.