Torture

/ˈtɔːr.tʃər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the act of inflicting severe pain on someone as a punishment or to force them to do or say something.

The report detailed the inhumane torture of prisoners.

extreme physical or mental suffering.

The survivor spoke of the emotional torture she endured.

verb

to inflict severe pain or suffering on someone, typically to obtain information or as punishment.

They were tortured for information about the organization's operations.

to cause intense suffering to someone.

He felt tortured by the memories of his past.

to subject to intense anxiety or suffering.

The uncertainty of the situation tortured her thoughts.

Middle English: from Old French 'torture', from Latin 'tortura', based on 'torquere' meaning 'to twist'.

torture oneself

To put oneself through mental anguish or distress.

torture by delays

Prolonging a situation causing frustration or anxiety.

torment

Severe physical or mental suffering.

affliction

A condition of great distress or grief.

To subject someone to extreme inconvenience or hassle.

I don't want to torture you with my endless stories.

To tease someone in a painful or annoying way.

Stop torturing me with those cheesy jokes!