torture
9 synonyms and 0 antonyms for torture, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The deliberate infliction of severe pain, especially to punish someone or force information out of them.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use torture
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French torture, from Late Latin tortura ("a twisting, writhing"), from Latin tortus, past participle of torquere, "to twist."
Full origin of torture →Frequently asked questions
What does “torture” mean?
The word “torture” means the deliberate infliction of severe pain, especially to punish someone or force information out of them. In plain terms, deliberately causing severe pain or suffering — literally (physical torture) or figuratively (something agonizing to endure).
How do you pronounce “torture”?
“Torture” is pronounced TAWT-shuh (/ˈtɔɹt͡ʃɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “torture” in a sentence?
Here is “torture” used in a sentence: “The regime was condemned internationally for its use of torture.”
What is another word for “torture”?
Words with a similar meaning to “torture” include enhanced interrogation, torment and excruciate.
What part of speech is “torture”?
Depending on how it is used, “torture” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “torture” come from?
The word “torture” comes from Late Latin. From Old French torture, from Late Latin tortura ("a twisting, writhing"), from Latin tortus, past participle of torquere, "to twist.".
Is “torture” a common word?
“Torture” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “torture” have?
“Torture” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the deliberate infliction of severe pain, especially to punish someone or force information out of them.
What is the difference between "torture" and "torment"?
"Torture" often refers to the deliberate infliction of severe pain, especially to punish or to force out information, and it can name a physical act. "Torment" more often refers to prolonged mental or emotional suffering, or to the act of tormenting. Both describe great suffering, but torture more strongly implies intentional, systematic cruelty.
What is the difference between "torture" and "abuse"?
"Torture" is the deliberate infliction of severe pain, typically to punish or extract information. "Abuse" is broader, covering any cruel, harmful, or improper treatment, whether physical, verbal, or emotional. Torture is an extreme form of abuse, but not all abuse rises to torture.
Can "torture" describe everyday suffering?
Yes. Beyond its literal meaning, "torture" is often used figuratively for severe mental or physical suffering, as in "the wait was torture." Used this way it is an exaggeration for something painful or agonising rather than a literal act of cruelty.