torture

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).

“Torture” is pronounced TAWT-shuh (/ˈtɔɹt͡ʃɚ/ in IPA).

Here is “torture” used in a sentence: “The regime was condemned internationally for its use of torture.”

Words with a similar meaning to “torture” include enhanced interrogation, torment and excruciate.

Depending on how it is used, “torture” can be a noun and a verb.

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.".

“Torture” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“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.

"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.

"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.

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.