agony
Agony (noun) means extreme physical pain or mental suffering. Example: “He was in agony after breaking his arm.”
How to Use Agony
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSevere pain or distress, whether it's a physical injury or an unbearable wait for news.
Word Forms
agonies plural
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
He was in _____ after breaking his arm.
Etymology
From Greek agonia, "struggle, contest," from agon, "a contest" — originally describing the intense struggle before death, later broadened to any extreme suffering.
Synonyms
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Related Words
Rhymes for agony
See all rhymes for agony →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “agony” mean?
The word “agony” means extreme physical pain or mental suffering. In plain terms, severe pain or distress, whether it's a physical injury or an unbearable wait for news.
How do you pronounce “agony”?
“Agony” is pronounced AG-uh-nee (/ˈæɡ.ə.ni/ in IPA).
How do you use “agony” in a sentence?
Here is “agony” used in a sentence: “He was in agony after breaking his arm.”
What is another word for “agony”?
Words with a similar meaning to “agony” include anguish, torment, throe, distress, pang and suffering.
What is the opposite of “agony”?
The opposite of “agony” — its antonyms — are ecstasy, analgesia, bliss and pleasure.
What part of speech is “agony”?
“Agony” is a noun.
Where does the word “agony” come from?
The word “agony” comes from Greek. From Greek agonia, "struggle, contest," from agon, "a contest" — originally describing the intense struggle before death, later broadened to any extreme suffering.
Is “agony” a common word?
“Agony” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
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