through the wringer
Definition of through the wringer
informal
: through a series of very difficult or unpleasant experiences Those poor people have really gone/been through the wringer lately. They were put through the wringer by the adoption agency.
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Word by Word Definitions
wringerplay
: one that wrings: such as
: a machine or device for pressing out liquid or moisture
: something that causes pain, hardship, or exertion
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