torture
|tor-ture|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈtɔːr.tʃər/
🇬🇧
/ˈtɔː.tʃər/
inflicting pain
Etymology
Etymology Information
'torture' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'tortura,' where 'torquere' meant 'to twist.'
Historical Evolution
'tortura' transformed into the Old French word 'torture,' and eventually became the modern English word 'torture' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to twist or torment,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'inflicting severe pain.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of inflicting severe pain as a form of punishment or to extract information.
The prisoner endured hours of torture.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42