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adj

agonizing

AG-uh-neye-zihng

Agonizing (adj) means causing severe physical or mental pain. Example: “She let out an agonizing scream after twisting her ankle.”

adj
1
Causing severe physical or mental pain.
"She let out an agonizing scream after twisting her ankle."
"It was an agonizing decision to make."

How to use agonizing

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSo painful — physically or emotionally — that it feels almost unbearable.

UK vs US

British English also spells it "agonising."

Common pairings
agonizing pain agonizing wait agonizing decision

Word forms

more agonizing comparative, agonizings plural, most agonizing superlative

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She let out an _____ scream after twisting her ankle.

Antonyms

Related words

Rhymes for agonizing

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Frequently asked questions

What does “agonizing” mean?

The word “agonizing” means causing severe physical or mental pain. In plain terms, so painful — physically or emotionally — that it feels almost unbearable.

How do you pronounce “agonizing”?

“Agonizing” is pronounced AG-uh-neye-zihng (/ˈæɡ.ə.naɪ.zɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “agonizing” in a sentence?

Here is “agonizing” used in a sentence: “She let out an agonizing scream after twisting her ankle.”

What is the opposite of “agonizing”?

The opposite of “agonizing” — its antonyms — are pleasant and pleasing.

What part of speech is “agonizing”?

“Agonizing” is an adjective.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial