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torment

verb

/tɔrˈmɛnt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of torment

To cause severe physical or mental pain, anguish, or distress to someone.
"The relentless mosquitoes would torment us throughout the night."

Detailed meaning of torment

It involves intentionally inflicting suffering or tormenting someone emotionally, psychologically, or physically. To torment another person is to subject them to intense agony, torment, or torture either through cruel actions, harsh words, or prolonged mistreatment. This verb often implies a deliberate and malicious intent to cause harm, often driven by a desire for power, control, or revenge. Torment can take various forms, including bullying, harassment, psychological manipulation, or the infliction of physical pain. It is an action that seeks to break down a person's spirit, destabilize their emotional well-being, or cause them to experience prolonged suffering. The act of tormenting someone is regarded as cruel and inhumane, and it represents a violation of an individual's rights and dignity.

Example sentences containing torment

1. Guilt began to torment him as he recalled his actions from that fateful night.
2. The memories of the accident still torment her, causing sleepless nights.
3. Bullies should never torment their classmates; kindness should prevail.
4. Nightmares continued to torment him after the incident, leaving him exhausted.
5. The loss of a loved one can torment one's soul, leaving a lasting ache.
6. His chronic pain, a relentless companion, continued to torment him daily.

History and etymology of torment

The verb 'torment' has its origins in the Latin word 'tormentare,' which means 'to twist' or 'to torture.' In Latin, it was used to describe the act of inflicting severe physical or mental pain on individuals. Over time, as the word evolved through Old French and Middle English, it retained its fundamental meaning of causing intense suffering, anguish, or distress. 'Torment' embodies the idea of inflicting agony or torment on someone, reflecting the enduring human recognition of the capacity to cause both physical and mental anguish, and it remains a powerful word to convey the depths of suffering and distress experienced by individuals.

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Further usage examples of torment

1. Worries about the uncertain future torment her mind, creating anxiety.
2. The relentless noise outside started to torment me, disrupting my concentration.
3. Jealousy can torment a person's heart and mind, poisoning relationships.
4. She couldn't escape the intrusive thoughts that torment her, seeking therapy.
5. The haunting melody of the song seemed to torment his spirit, evoking memories.
6. The demons of addiction torment his every step, making recovery a struggle.
7. The past can torment us if we let it, leading to regret and despair.
8. His cruel words continue to torment her even now, affecting self-esteem.
9. Loneliness began to torment him in his old age, yearning for companionship.
10. The uncertainty of the situation tormented her, causing stress and unease.
11. His inner demons relentlessly torment him night and day, seeking release.
12. The guilt of betraying his friend tormented him, driving him to seek forgiveness.
13. The relentless, throbbing pain in her joints tormented her, requiring treatment.
14. The tragic loss of their home continues to torment them, rebuilding their lives.
15. The bully would torment his classmates by teasing and mocking them.
16. The prisoner endured years of torment in solitary confinement.
17. The haunting memories would torment her in her dreams.
18. The villain took pleasure in tormenting his captives with psychological games.
19. She couldn't escape the torment of her past mistakes.
20. The persistent pain would torment him day and night.
21. The internet trolls sought to torment unsuspecting users with their hurtful comments.
22. The ghostly apparitions would torment the inhabitants of the old mansion.
23. The guilt would torment him, making it difficult to find peace.
24. The disease would torment her with unbearable physical symptoms.
25. The haunting melodies would torment his mind, evoking painful memories.