Anguish

Noun

Definition: Severe mental or physical pain or suffering.

Synonyms: Agony, Torment, Distress

Antonyms: Happiness, Bliss, Contentment

Examples:

The mother's anguish was evident as she mourned the loss of her child.
He experienced deep anguish over the betrayal of his best friend.

Mnemonics:

"Anguish" can be associated with a strong "anguish" cry, expressing extreme pain.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English 'angwisse', from Old French 'angoisse', from Latin 'angustia' (narrowness, distress), from 'angustus' (narrow).

Historical Usage:

The term has been used since the Middle Ages and has retained its meaning of severe suffering throughout history.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Heart-wrenching anguish"

Explanation:

Describing a profound and emotionally painful experience.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "anguish" with "anger" due to similarity in spelling.

Explanation:

While both words denote negative emotions, "anguish" specifically refers to severe suffering, whereas "anger" is associated with feelings of annoyance, frustration, or rage.