suffering

noun

suf·​fer·​ing ˈsə-f(ə-)riŋ How to pronounce suffering (audio)
1
: the state or experience of one that suffers
2
: pain
Choose the Right Synonym for suffering

distress, suffering, misery, agony mean the state of being in great trouble.

distress implies an external and usually temporary cause of great physical or mental strain and stress.

the hurricane put everyone in great distress

suffering implies conscious endurance of pain or distress.

the suffering of famine victims

misery stresses the unhappiness attending especially sickness, poverty, or loss.

some people live in misery every day

agony suggests pain too intense to be borne.

in agony over the death of their child

Examples of suffering in a Sentence

ways to alleviate human suffering They hope these new drugs will help to bring an end to the suffering of arthritis patients. His lawsuit seeks damages for pain and suffering. the sufferings of the dying
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Three corrections officers will fire rifles loaded with bullets designed to break apart on impact, maximizing fatality and minimizing suffering. William Lambers, Newsweek, 7 Mar. 2025 For many owners, both then and today, the beauty of these car was—and is—worth suffering, and understandably so when everything performs on cue. Robert Ross, Robb Report, 7 Mar. 2025 The result is a stunning look at Black suffering and Black joy, and how a group of people who have been stereotyped as avoiding water actually have a deep and meaningful history with the ocean. Outside Online, 5 Mar. 2025 Today's agreement recognises the many years of emotional and physical suffering the 19 families have endured and will continue to endure. Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for suffering

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of suffering was in the 14th century

Cite this Entry

“Suffering.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suffering. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

suffering

noun
suf·​fer·​ing
1
: the state or experience of one that suffers
2
: a pain or injury endured
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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