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Meaning of the Word
“Agony” refers to extreme physical or emotional pain, suffering, or distress.

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Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Intense physical pain or discomfort.
2. Extreme emotional suffering or distress, such as grief or despair.
3. A state of intense anguish or torment, either physically or mentally.
4. Prolonged, severe suffering, often associated with a traumatic or distressing event.

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History and Origin
The word “agony” originates from the Greek word agonia, which referred to a contest, struggle, or a fight, especially in the context of physical or emotional turmoil. In Ancient Greece, agonia was used to describe the suffering or intense effort of a competitor in the final moments of a contest. The word gradually evolved in English to describe both physical pain and emotional anguish. It entered English during the late Middle Ages.

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Detailed Explanation
Agony describes a state of intense suffering, often involving both physical and emotional components. It is generally considered to be more severe than ordinary pain or distress. For example, agony might describe the pain felt during a serious injury or illness, or it can refer to the emotional torment someone experiences after a personal loss or a deeply troubling situation. The word conveys the idea of something extreme, with connotations of both duration and intensity. Unlike mild discomfort, agony often implies a level of pain that can be almost unbearable or overwhelming.

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Example Sentences

1. He was in agony after breaking his leg during the hike.
2. The news of her friend’s death filled her with deep emotional agony.
3. She screamed in agony as the hot water burned her skin.
4. The patient endured hours of agony before receiving the pain medication.
5. The agony of waiting for the test results was unbearable.
6. His face twisted in agony as the wound was cleaned.
7. They witnessed the agony of the soldiers returning from the battlefield.
8. The long separation from his family caused him immense emotional agony.
9. Her agony was evident as she relived the traumatic event in therapy.

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Synonyms with Short Explanations

1. Pain – Physical discomfort or distress, often less intense than agony.
2. Suffering – Enduring hardship or distress, typically physical or emotional.
3. Torment – Extreme pain or distress, especially of a prolonged or mental nature.
4. Misery – Great discomfort or unhappiness, either physical or emotional.
5. Distress – A state of worry or suffering, often in response to a painful or troubling situation.

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Related Words with Short Explanations

1. Anguish – Severe mental or physical pain, often associated with grief or regret.
2. Heartache – Emotional pain, especially caused by love or loss.
3. Grief – Intense sorrow, typically following a loss or tragedy.
4. Torture – Extreme pain or suffering, often intentionally inflicted.
5. Woe – Great sorrow or distress, often used in a poetic or formal context.

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More Matches with Short Explanations

1. Painkiller – A medication used to alleviate physical agony or discomfort.
2. Aggrieved – Feeling extreme dissatisfaction or emotional pain, often related to injustice.
3. Crisis – A situation of intense difficulty or danger, often accompanied by emotional agony.
4. Excruciate – To cause intense pain or suffering, often used in the context of physical agony.
5. Trauma – A deeply distressing or disturbing experience, leading to emotional agony or lasting effects.

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Antonyms

1. Comfort
2. Relief
3. Pleasure
4. Happiness
5. Contentment