torturous

adjective

tor·​tur·​ous ˈtȯr-chə-rəs 

ˈtȯrch-

1

a

: very unpleasant or painful

a torturous day

torturous self-doubts

b

: causing torture

torturous inquisitions

2

: painfully difficult or slow

the torturous course of the negotiations

torturously adverb

Synonyms of torturous

• painful
• harsh
• cruel

Examples of torturous in a Sentence

relatives had to make the torturous decision to disconnect the patient's life-support system

the post-infection treatment for rabies was as notoriously torturous as the disease itself

Recent Examples on the Web

The ensuing months were torturous. —Rob Picheta, CNN Money, 7 Feb. 2026

These individually wrapped peanut butter and oat bites are a suitable lunch box treat, or fuel for people who take long bike rides and other torturous endurance sports. —Alex Beggs, Bon Appetit Magazine, 7 Feb. 2026

The many comparisons the researchers tested show a torturous pathway to a significant finding. —Eleanor M. Perfetto, STAT, 7 Feb. 2026

Texas State pitcher Madison Azua simultaneously groaned and laughed while recounting the near-torturous exercises the program put her and teammates through. —Caleb Yum, Austin American Statesman, 3 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Kids Definition

torturous

adjective

tor·​tur·​ous ˈtȯrch-(ə-)rəs 

: causing great pain

torturously adverb