Meaning of the word torture in English

What does torture mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

torture

US /ˈtɔːr.tʃɚ/

UK /ˈtɔːr.tʃɚ/

the action or practice of inflicting severe pain on someone as a punishment or in order to force them to do or say something

Example:

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The prisoner was subjected to brutal torture.

•

Human rights organizations condemn the use of torture.

Synonym:

torment agony suffering distress anguish

a cause of severe pain or suffering

Example:

•

Waiting for the results was pure torture.

•

His constant complaining was a real torture.

Synonym:

ordeal trial hardship misery affliction

inflict severe pain or suffering on (someone)

Example:

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The interrogators tried to torture information out of him.

•

He was accused of trying to torture the truth out of the suspect.

Synonym:

torment persecute afflict agonize distress

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