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

Eiglarsh added that while the suffering of the families was evident throughout the trial, the defense successfully argued that the crash was a tragic accident. —Nikiya Carrero, CBS News, 24 June 2026

The claimants are asking for $10 million against each respondent and said their damages include medical care, psychological and counseling care and pain, suffering and mental anguish. —Joshua Dougherty, Idaho Statesman, 22 June 2026

First of all, the suffering of the Iranian people has been horrific in the context of this unnecessary conflict. —ABC News, 21 June 2026

Despite my suffering and episodes of mental disorganization. —Ben Lerner, New Yorker, 21 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