'agonize' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'agonizesthai,' where 'agon' meant 'contest' or 'struggle.'

'agonizesthai' transformed into the Latin word 'agonizare,' and eventually became the modern English word 'agonize' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to contend in a struggle or contest,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to suffer or struggle intensely.'