torment Meaning

Definition

Torment (noun and verb):

1. As a noun: It refers to severe physical or mental suffering, distress, or pain. For example, “The torment of losing a loved one can be overwhelming.”

2. As a verb: It means to cause severe physical or mental suffering to someone; to inflict pain or distress upon another. For instance, “He tormented his rival with cruel jokes.”

Usage

• Noun: “The torment she experienced during her illness was unimaginable.”
• Verb: “The bullies tormented the younger schoolmates relentlessly.”

Etymology

The word “torment” originates from the Middle English term torment, which came from the Old French torment, itself derived from the Latin tormentum, meaning ‘a twisting’ or ’to twist’. The Latin root is related to the verb torquere, meaning ’to twist’ or ’to torture.’

Pronunciation

/orˈmɛnt/ (US) or /ˈtɔːmənt/ (UK)

Synonyms

• Agony
• Suffering
• Torment (as a verb)
• Afflict
• Harass
• Oppress

Antonyms

• Comfort
• Relief
• Soothe
• Pacify
• Ease
• Console

This thorough understanding of “torment” illustrates its various forms, connotations, and applications in both written and spoken English.

1. The constant pain in his back seemed to torment him day and night.
2. The haunting memories of the past would torment her whenever she tried to sleep.
3. The villagers were left to torment themselves with fear of the approaching storm.
4. He felt as though his critics were determined to torment him with every negative review.
5. The thought of losing his best friend continued to torment him long after the argument.

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