Need another word for Agony? Use these synonyms of Agony from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
anguish
suffering
torment
distress
misery
pain
discomfort
wretchedness
affliction
tribulation
hardship
adversity
sorrow
grief
desolation
despair
desperation
hopelessness
bleakness
despondency
depression
melancholy
sadness
unhappiness
woe
lamentation
plaintiveness
pitifulness
poignancy
heartache
heartbreak
anguishness
excruciation
torture
martyrdom
cruciation
mortification
Meaning of Agony
The primary meaning of the word "Agony" is intense physical or mental suffering.
Definitions
- Intense physical or mental suffering, especially when caused by injury, illness, or great emotional upset
- * A state of severe distress, especially of mind or spirit
Etymology of Agony
The word "Agony" originates from Old French "agonie", derived from Latin "agōnia", which is itself derived from Greek "ἀγώνия" (agōnia), meaning "a struggle" or "a contest", and is related to "ἀγών" (agōn), meaning "a contest" or "a struggle"
Historically, the word initially referred to a struggle or contest, but its meaning evolved to include intense physical or mental suffering
Example Uses
- The patient was in agony after the surgery
- * The news of her death was an agony to her family
- * The athlete was in agony as she struggled to finish the marathon
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
bliss
ecstasy
euphoria
happiness
joy
delight
pleasure
comfort
relief
solace
tranquility
serenity
peace
contentment
satisfaction
cheerfulness
lightheartedness
glee
exhilaration
elation
rapture
thrill
excitement