suffering

noun

suf·​fer·​ing ˈsə-f(ə-)riŋ 

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

Hundreds of protesters have been arrested, of whom more than 300 allege suffering beatings, torture and other ill-treatment at the hands of law enforcement, according to Amnesty International. —Elizabeth McBride, CNN, 15 Feb. 2025

Officers located a 17-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound to his arm. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 12 Feb. 2025

Implementing Trump's proposal would result in unimaginable suffering, exacerbate instability in the region, and create a dangerous precedent for conflicts around the globe. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Feb. 2025

With the suit, Bruce is seeking compensation for physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, special damages including medical care, punitive damages and any attorney costs. —Sierra Lopez, The Mercury News, 12 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing suffering

• long-suffering

Kids Definition

suffering

noun

suf·​fer·​ing

1

: the state or experience of one that suffers

2

: a pain or injury endured