Agony
/ˈæɡ.ə.ni/noun
Intense physical or mental suffering.
Did you know?In ancient times, 'agony' was often linked to the struggles of athletes in the arena, where every performance was a battle for survival and glory.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*h₂eg-
“To drive, to lead, to be in motion, often implying a struggle or conflict.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἀγωνία (agōnia)
“A struggle or contest, especially in a physical or mental sense.”
Late Latin
Latin
agonia
“Pain, anguish, especially in the context of death or extreme suffering.”
Old French
Old French
agonie
“Severe pain or suffering, particularly associated with death.”
Middle English
Middle English
agonie
“Intense suffering, often in a spiritual or existential context.”
Modern English
English
agony
“Profound suffering, whether physical or emotional.”
Explore more surprising origins