Torment: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is experiencing prolonged and severe physical or mental suffering.

• The constant bullying was a source of great torment for Jane.
• He could not sleep, tormented by the memories of the accident.

Describes severe mental or emotional pain, often related to deep sorrow or distress.

• The mother was in anguish after losing her child.
• He expressed his anguish through his music.

Often refers to extreme physical or emotional pain, usually intense but can be short-lived.

• She screamed in agony when she broke her leg.
• The loss threw him into an agony of grief.

Used for a state of extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain, but can be less severe than agony or anguish.

• She was in distress after hearing the bad news.
• Financial problems caused him a lot of distress.

Use when someone is causing intense physical or mental suffering over an extended period.

• Her constant criticism tormented him for years.
• He felt tormented by his past mistakes.

Use when explaining extreme physical or mental pain inflicted deliberately, often in a context of cruelty.

• The captured spy was subjected to brutal torture.
• The exam was mental torture for him.

Use when talking about something causing continual trouble or distress; this can often be a negative mental or physical condition.

• The region was plagued by drought for several years.
• She is plagued by doubts about her career.

Use when referring to something that continuously occupies someone's thoughts in a troubling way.

• The memory of the accident haunts her dreams.
• His unfulfilled dreams haunt him every night.