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

Deputies found an adult female suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. — Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 28 July 2026

For many of us, historical and perennial suffering can be mended through reparations. — Literary Hub, 27 July 2026

Advocates counter the danger and suffering endured by Haitians in their homeland that has been continuous and far from temporary. — David Lyons, Sun Sentinel, 25 July 2026

But even then, the disease will still cause suffering and death for some victims, according to Chin-Hong. — Los Angeles Times, 24 July 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