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agony

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Agony is defined as extraordinary, and often long term, physical or emotional pain.

(noun)

An example of someone in a state of agony is a recent widow.

The definition of agony refers to exhibiting extreme upset or sadness.

(noun)

An example of agony is the defeat of an Olympic athlete.

See agony in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun pl. agonies

very great mental or physical pain
death pangs
a convulsive struggle
a sudden, strong outburst (of emotion): an agony of joy

Origin: ME agonie < L agonia < Gr agōnia, a contest for victory < agōn, agon

See agony in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. ag·o·nies

The suffering of intense physical or mental pain.
The struggle that precedes death.
A sudden or intense emotion: an agony of doubt.
A violent, intense struggle.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English agonie

Origin: , from Old French

Origin: , from Late Latin agōnia

Origin: , from Greek agōniā

Origin: , from agōn, struggle

Origin: , from agein, to drive; see ag- in Indo-European roots

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