Agony

/ˈæɡəni/

Meaning & Definition

noun

Intense physical or mental suffering.

She was in agony after the accident.

A state of great anxiety or emotional distress.

He experienced the agony of waiting for the results.

A prolonged form of suffering.

The agony of not knowing what happened was unbearable.

Extreme pain, especially as a result of injury or illness.

The patient writhed in agony on the hospital bed.

From Middle English 'agone', from Latin 'agonia', from Greek 'agonia' meaning 'struggle, contest'.

agony of choice

The stress and confusion resulting from having to make a difficult decision.

agony aunt

A person who gives advice on personal problems, typically in a newspaper column.

anguish

Severe mental or physical pain or suffering.

torment

Severe physical or mental suffering.

distress

Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.

In a state of extreme discomfort.

I'm in agony after that workout!

Going through a tough time.

It's been pure agony trying to get this project done.