Suffer

Definition

The term "suffer" refers to experiencing pain, distress, or hardship, either physically or emotionally. It can also mean to tolerate or endure something unpleasant.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsʌf.ər/
• Respelling: SUHF-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsʌf.ə/
• Respelling: SUHF-uh

Etymology

The word "suffer" originates from the Latin "sufferre," meaning "to bear" or "to undergo," derived from "sub-" (under) and "ferre" (to carry). It entered Middle English through Old French "suffrir."

Derivatives

• Sufferer (noun)
• Suffering (noun, adjective)
• Sufferance (noun)
• Unsufferable (adjective, rare)
• Self-suffering (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Endure
• Experience
• Undergo

Antonyms

• Relieve
• Comfort
• Alleviate

Usage

The term "suffer" is commonly used in contexts involving pain, hardship, or tolerance. For example, "He suffered a severe injury in the accident" or "She suffers from chronic anxiety."

Related Terms

• Pain: The sensation of discomfort or distress.
• Hardship: Severe suffering or deprivation.
• Endurance: The ability to withstand suffering or adversity.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To experience pain, distress, or hardship:
  • Example: "He suffered greatly after losing his job."
• To tolerate or endure something unpleasant:
  • Example: "She suffered through the long and tedious lecture."
• To be adversely affected by a condition or situation:
  • Example: "The crops suffered from a lack of rainfall."