Agonizing – Definition & Meaning

Agonizing is a word that is used to describe a situation that is causing extreme mental or physical pain. It is a term that is often associated with suffering, distress, and anguish. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of agonizing, its origin, as well as its synonyms and antonyms.

Definitions

Agonizing is an adjective that describes something that causes great physical or mental pain. It can be used to describe a wide range of situations, from physical injury to emotional distress. Some common synonyms for agonizing include excruciating, torturous, and unbearable.

Origin

The word agonizing comes from the Greek word agon, which means struggle or contest. In ancient Greece, the term was used to describe the physical and mental pain that athletes experienced during competitions. Over time, the word came to be associated with any situation that caused extreme suffering or distress.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, agonizing means “causing great physical or mental pain”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “causing or accompanied by intense physical or mental suffering”. The Cambridge dictionary describes it as “extremely painful or difficult to bear”.

Associations

Agonizing is often associated with situations that are difficult to endure. It can be used to describe physical pain, such as the agony of a broken bone, or emotional pain, such as the agony of a broken heart. It is also associated with situations that are uncertain or unpredictable, such as waiting for test results or waiting for news about a loved one’s health.

Synonyms

Some common synonyms for agonizing include excruciating, torturous, unbearable, harrowing, and distressing.

Antonyms

Antonyms of agonizing include painless, easy, comfortable, and enjoyable.

The same root words

The root word of agonizing is agon, which means struggle or contest. Other words that have the same root include agony, which means intense physical or mental suffering, and antagonist, which means a person who opposes or competes with another.

Example Sentences

  1. The agonizing pain in her knee made it difficult for her to walk.
  2. Waiting for the test results was agonizing.
  3. The agonizing decision to end the relationship was not easy.
  4. The athlete experienced agonizing pain during the competition.
  5. The family was in agonizing suspense as they waited for news about their missing loved one.
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