Synonyms for

Torment

Verb / ˈtɔ:ˌrment / / tɔ:ˈrment / Another word for torment — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To cause severe physical or mental suffering to someone.

Synonyms & similar words

anguish dun harassment torture rack rag agony badgering curse frustrate worrying crucify excruciate bedevil bedevilment torture harass persecute torpedo vex afflict agonize bedevil bother distress harrow irritate molest oppress pest plague ravage ruffle tease trouble

Synonyms by register

Formal

affliction anguish distress suffering

Informal

hassle bother bug annoy

Literary

agony woe rack harrow

Antonyms

comfort joy pleasure relief solace delight happiness

Common collocations

  • mental torment
  • physical torment
  • emotional torment
  • endure torment
  • inflict torment
  • suffer torment
  • constant torment

Word family

noun torment
verb torment
adjective tormented

Usage note

Torment often implies prolonged or severe suffering, either mental or physical. It can be used as both a noun and a verb.

Example sentences

  1. The dog would repeatedly bark and torment the cat next door.
  2. He couldn't concentrate on his work because the pain in his leg was tormenting him.
  3. The thought of failing the test was tormenting her.
  4. The prisoner was tormented by the guards in the cell.
  5. The haunted house was said to torment anyone who dared to enter after dark.

Quotes

  • I have never known any distress that an hour's reading did not relieve. - Charles de Montesquieu
  • The greatest torture in the world for most people is to think. - James Branch Cabell
  • The torture of a bad conscience is the hell of a living soul. - John Calvin

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