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Synonyms

suffering

American  
[suhf-er-ing, suhf-ring] / ˈsʌf ər ɪŋ, ˈsʌf rɪŋ /

noun

  1. the state of a person or thing that suffers.

    Synonyms:
    distress, pain, torture, torment, agony
  2. Often sufferings. something suffered by a person or a group of people; pain.

    the sorrows and sufferings of our poorest citizens.


suffering British  
/ ˈsʌfrɪŋ, ˈsʌfərɪŋ /

noun

  1. the pain, misery, or loss experienced by a person who suffers

  2. the state or an instance of enduring pain, etc

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • sufferingly adverb
  • unsuffering adjective

Etymology

Origin of suffering

First recorded in 1350–1400; suffer + -ing 1 ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Despite suffering from "numerous" bald patches, a torn muzzle, and repairs to both pads on his paws and feet, the Edwardian bear attracted a lot of interest ahead of the sale.

From BBC

"We embrace a certain amount of discomfort and hardship and suffering."

From BBC

"We came here to support him, but the Congolese people are suffering. What we want is work," says Flora Kouka, a nurse.

From Barron's

The economy is suffering huge strain as a result of intensified sanctions and heightened regional tensions.

From Barron's

The economy is suffering huge strain as a result of intensified sanctions and heightened regional tensions.

From Barron's