tormented

word · lemma: torment

Definition

Suffering from severe mental or emotional pain, or being made to suffer greatly, often over a period of time.

Usage & Nuances

Most often describes deep, ongoing emotional suffering (e.g. 'tormented by guilt'). Can describe physical or mental pain. It is formal/literary; in conversation, 'suffering' or 'in pain' is more common.

Example Sentences

He felt tormented by his mistakes.

basic

The tormented child could not sleep at night.

basic

She had a tormented expression on her face.

basic

He's been tormented by the same nightmare for years.

natural

The tormented artist poured his pain into his music.

natural

Sometimes she looks tormented, even when she tries to smile.

natural