verb

tormented

/tɔrˈmɛntɪd/ · say it: tor·MEN·tid

suffering severe mental anguish

In Emotions & Moods

In more detail

1. (verb) caused someone to suffer emotionally or mentally, often by deliberately upsetting them

2. (adjective) suffering greatly from emotional or physical pain

Examples

1. The bullies tormented him for years because of his appearance.
2. He had a tormented expression on his face as he thought about his past mistakes.

How to use tormented

Tormented emphasizes prolonged suffering, whether self-inflicted through guilt or imposed by others. The adjective suggests deep emotional distress visible in someone's demeanor, while the verb form can mean either deliberate harassment or the causing of emotional pain through circumstances. It carries more intensity than simply 'upset' or 'annoyed.'

Common phrases

tormented by guilt
tormented by memories
tormented soul
tormented expression
visibly tormented

Synonyms

anguished · plagued · harassed · vexed · tortured

Opposites

comforted · soothed · relieved

Word family

torment (noun/verb) · tormentor (noun) · tormenting (adjective) · tormentingly (adverb)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use 'tormented' for minor frustrations or inconveniences, when it actually implies serious, sustained suffering rather than temporary annoyance.

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