Agony

Definition

Agony is a noun that refers to extreme physical suffering, mental anguish, or intense pain; it can also denote a state of severe distress or torment.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˈæɡəni/
• Respelling: AG-uh-nee

British English

• IPA: /ˈæɡ.ə.ni/
• Respelling: AG-uh-nee

Etymology

Late Middle English: via Old French algonie from Latin agōnia ‘struggle, pain,’ from Greek agōnía ‘mental distress, contest.’

Derivatives

• agonize (verb)
• agonizing (adjective)
• agonized (adjective)

Synonyms

• torment
• anguish
• pain
• suffering
• distress

Antonyms

• comfort
• relief
• solace
• bliss

Usage

The noun "agony" is used in medical, emotional, and literary contexts to describe intense suffering. For example, "He writhed in agony after breaking his leg," or "She was in agony over the decision she had to make."

Related Terms

• Anguish: Severe mental or physical pain.
• Torment: Great bodily or mental suffering.
• Distress: Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.
• Suffering: The state of undergoing pain or hardship.
• Misery: A state of great suffering and unhappiness.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Intense physical pain – acute suffering due to injury or illness.
  • Example: "The burn victim screamed in agony."
• Severe mental anguish – a state of extreme distress or torment.
  • Example: "The thought of losing her lifelong friend put her in agony."