nightmare

US /ˈnaɪt.mer/
UK /ˈnaɪt.mer/
"nightmare" picture
1.

a terrifying dream in which the dreamer experiences feelings of helplessness, extreme anxiety, or sorrow

:
I woke up in a cold sweat after having a terrible nightmare.
Children often have nightmares about monsters.
2.

a very unpleasant or frightening experience or situation

:
The traffic jam was an absolute nightmare.
Dealing with the bureaucracy was a complete nightmare.