torture
Translation
to torture, to torment
Examples
They tortured him for information.
They tortured him for information.
He was tortured by feelings of guilt.
He was tortured by feelings of guilt.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.)) to inflict severe pain on (sb.) They tortured him for information.
((sb.)) ((with/by sth.)) to cause great mental suffering to (sb.) He was tortured by feelings of guilt.
Similar Words
Synonyms: torment, afflict, persecute; Antonyms: comfort, soothe, relieve
Etymology
From Latin 'torquere' (to twist). The act of 'twisting' someone's body or mind to cause pain.
Memory Tips
Connect 'torture' with 'twist'. To torture is to twist someone physically or mentally.