Bane/beɪn/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation Describes something negatively impactful; brings frustration or harm. Smartphones can be the bane of productive work hours. Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Weight Brings out strong feelings; often used to express a personal burden. Missing the last train home became the bane of her evening. Pro Tip 3/3Hyperbolic Expression Can be used hyperbolically to exaggerate minor annoyances. Homework is the bane of my existence, even though it's just for a short time.