Tortured: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe someone who has been subjected to severe physical or mental pain, usually in a methodical and intentional manner. It can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

• The spy was captured and tortured for information
• She felt like a tortured artist, always struggling with her creative process

Torment refers to causing severe physical or mental suffering. It's similar to 'tortured' but is more often used in psychological contexts. It can imply prolonged or relentless suffering.

• The haunted house tormented him with its eerie noises
• She was tormented by her own doubts and insecurities

Abuse is generally used to describe harmful or cruel treatment, and it can be physical, emotional, or verbal. It has a strong negative connotation and is often associated with ongoing patterns of behavior.

• The animal showed signs of abuse, like bruises and scars
• Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse

Mistreat means to treat someone or something badly or unfairly. It is a less intense term compared to 'abuse' and can describe a range of negative behaviors, usually not as severe.

• It's important not to mistreat pets, as they rely on us for their well-being
• Employees felt they were being mistreated by their manager

Often used to describe someone who is suffering intense physical or mental pain, typically due to prolonged and severe abuse. This term usually has a strong emotional context and can refer to both literal and figurative pain.

• The prisoner was tortured to extract information.
• She felt tortured by her own insecurities.

Often used to describe extreme physical pain, but can also apply to severe mental anguish. This term usually highlights the high intensity of the pain.

• The injury caused excruciating pain.
• She felt excruciating mental distress after the loss.

Used when someone is suffering from severe mental or emotional pain, often due to difficult decisions or distressing situations. It usually refers to being deeply worried or stressed over something.

• He agonized over the choice of career path.
• She agonized for days whether to tell the truth or not.

Can be used to describe severe mental or physical suffering, often due to an ongoing situation or harassment. This word can have a slightly broader, more generalized application than 'tortured'.

• The bully tormented him every day at school.
• He was tormented by nightmares.