rührend

Rührend is a German adjective that translates to "touching," "moving," or "poignant" in English. It is used to describe something that evokes strong emotions, typically sadness, sympathy, or tenderness. The word can be applied to a variety of situations, events, or artistic expressions.

For instance, a story or a film might be described as rührend if it elicits tears or a deep emotional response from the audience. A gesture of kindness, a reunion between loved ones, or a selfless act of sacrifice could also be considered rührend. In literature, a particularly moving passage or a character's tragic fate might be described as such. The adjective suggests a genuine and heartfelt emotional impact, often stemming from empathy or a shared human experience. It implies a stirring of the emotions, hence its etymological connection to the verb "rühren," meaning "to stir" or "to touch." The feeling conveyed by "rührend" is usually one of profound emotional resonance.