Langimage
English

torment

|tor/ment|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈtɔːrment/

🇬🇧

/ˈtɔːment/

severe suffering

Etymology
Etymology Information

'torment' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'torment,' where 'tormentum' meant 'twisting' or 'torture.'

Historical Evolution

'tormentum' transformed into the Old French word 'torment,' and eventually became the modern English word 'torment' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'twisting or torture,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'severe suffering.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

severe physical or mental suffering.

The constant noise was a torment to him.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to cause someone to experience severe mental or physical suffering.

The bully tormented the younger students.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/03/02 16:36