Pronunciation: [ˈaɡənɪ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "agony" is straightforward, with each letter pronounced as expected. The IPA phonetic transcription for "agony" is /ˈæɡəni/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "a" is pronounced as a short "a" sound, while the "g" is pronounced as a hard "g." The "o" is pronounced as a short "o," and the "n" is pronounced as an "n" sound. The final "y" is pronounced as a long "i" sound, as in the word "my."
Agony is a noun that refers to the extreme physical or mental suffering and distress experienced by an individual. It is often characterized by intense pain, anguish, or torment that can be both physical and emotional in nature. The term "agony" is derived from the Greek word "agonia," which means struggle or contest.
In its physical sense, agony relates to severe pain that can result from various causes such as injury, disease, or trauma to the body. It denotes a state of excruciating discomfort or misery that may include symptoms like throbbing, burning, or stabbing sensations. Agony can also refer to the acute suffering and distress of terminal illnesses.
In a mental or emotional context, agony refers to intense psychological torment or anguish. It encompasses deep feelings of sorrow, despair, or grief, often resulting from traumatic or distressing events such as the loss of a loved one, a broken relationship, or severe disappointment. Mental agony can manifest as emotional turmoil, profound sadness, or a sense of hopelessness.
Agony is a sensation that is often associated with extreme circumstances or situations that push individuals beyond their limits, both physically and emotionally. It is a comprehensive term that encompasses both physical pain and emotional suffering, emphasizing the immense distress and torment experienced by an individual.
1. Intense pain or anguish of body or mind. 2. The act of dying.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Extreme pain or anguish either of body or mind.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "agony" originated from the Ancient Greek term "agōnía" (ἀγωνία), which referred to a struggle, contest, or effort. This noun was derived from the verb "agōnízomai" (ἀγωνίζομαι), which meant "to contend, fight, or struggle". In Ancient Greek, "agōnía" was primarily used in the context of athletic competition or conflict, representing the mental and physical anguish experienced during such challenging endeavors. Over time, the term "agony" came to be used more broadly to describe extreme suffering, pain, or distress, both in physical and emotional contexts.
