Synonyms for

Ache

Verb / eɪk / Another word for ache — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A continuous or prolonged dull pain in a part of the body.

Synonyms & similar words

yen aching yearn suffer hurt pine languish smart pain discomfort soreness throbbing tenderness hurt twinge sting suffering misery agony distress anguish affliction discomfort irritation smarting cramp spasm convulsion

Synonyms by register

Formal

discomfort pain malaise disquiet

Informal

hurt soreness ouchie owie

Literary

throb pang smart

Antonyms

relief comfort ease soothe alleviate heal

Common collocations

  • dull ache
  • sharp ache
  • constant ache
  • headache
  • backache
  • toothache
  • stomach ache
  • muscle ache

Word family

noun ache
verb ache
adjective achy

Usage note

While 'ache' can be used for both physical and emotional pain, it generally implies a dull, persistent discomfort rather than a sharp, sudden pain. It is often used in compound words like 'headache' or 'backache'.

Example sentences

  1. My stomach aches after eating too much candy.
  2. I have an ache in my back from sleeping on a hard surface.
  3. The dentist fixed my toothache and now it doesn't ache anymore.
  4. My feet ache from walking all day at the amusement park.
  5. It's hard to focus on my work when I have an ache in my head.

Quotes

  • Pain is a part of life. It's what makes us human. It's what makes us realize we're alive. - Stephen King
  • The only thing more exhausting than having a mental illness is pretending like you don't. - Unknown
  • The ache for home lives in all of us. - Maya Angelou

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