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

This suffering earth is wracked by extremes. —Literary Hub, 10 June 2026

The woman is seeking monetary damages in excess of $50,000 for pain and suffering, mental anguish, depression and more, and is requesting a jury trial. —Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 9 June 2026

Monday, North Little Rock police responded to 2600 John Ashley Drive, at the Jefferson Manor apartments, and found Aaron Gilliam, 44, of North Little Rock suffering from at least one gunshot wound, a Tuesday news release from the agency says. —Arkansas Online, 9 June 2026

But how can this not dilute the credit for the suffering of those who have to contend with severe misophonia? —Sloane Crosley, New Yorker, 8 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing suffering

• long-suffering

Rhymes for suffering

• buffering

Kids Definition

suffering

noun

suf·​fer·​ing

1

: the state or experience of one that suffers

2

: a pain or injury endured