agony
AG-uh-nee
Agony (noun) means Extreme physical pain or mental suffering. Example: “He was in agony after breaking his arm.”
noun
1
Extreme physical pain or mental suffering.
"He was in agony after breaking his arm."
"She watched in agony as the results were read out."
"The agony of waiting for the phone call kept her awake all night."
"When the weight fell on her foot, she cried out in agony."
How to use agony
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSevere pain or distress, whether it's a physical injury or an unbearable wait for news.
Common pairings
in agony
agony of waiting
scream in agony
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Word forms
- Plural
- agonies
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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.
What is the difference between agony and pain?
"Pain" is a general term for physical or emotional discomfort of any intensity, while "agony" specifically refers to extreme, often overwhelming suffering, whether physical or mental. Not all pain is agony, but agony is always severe.
What is an 'agony aunt' or 'agony column'?
In British English, an "agony aunt" (or "agony uncle") is a newspaper columnist who answers readers' personal problems, and an "agony column" is the section featuring such advice, extending "agony" beyond physical suffering to personal difficulties.
Can agony describe both physical and emotional suffering?
Yes, "agony" applies equally to intense physical pain, such as "in agony from a broken leg," and severe emotional distress, such as "agony over a difficult decision."
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