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.
"It was an agonizing twenty-minute wait for the results."
"She let out an agonizing scream after twisting her ankle."
"It was an agonizing decision to make."
How to use agonizing
Learner’s notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- agonizings
- Comparative
- more agonizing
- Superlative
- most agonizing
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She let out an _____ scream after twisting her ankle.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for agonizing
sizing
seizing
appetizing
organizing
downsizing
memorizing
vocalizing
socializing
tantalizing
apologizing
mesmerizing
patronizing
See all rhymes for agonizing →
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.
