rhizoverbBeta
DictionarysufferExperiencing harm
verb

suffer

SUF-ur/ˈsʌfər/

To endure something painful or unwelcome.

The woman suffers from ankle pain as she rests on the bench.

An older white woman sits on a bench holding her sore ankle after a walk, face tightened with discomfort, shoe loosened and walking companion offering help.
Etymology
sufLatinunder
+ferLatincarry, bear

Latin “under” and “bear” combined in a verb meaning “undergo” or “endure.” Suffering carries forward that sense of bearing pain, injury, or hardship.

In context

The Humanist Report33:56
insufficient data security practices allowed it to suffer a massive hack in 2017
PMCEHAI HTE EHTMOR RUFCKE | Episode 211 (September 27, 2019)

More examples

  • He suffers from frequent headaches.
  • The store suffered heavy losses during the storm.
  • Our coach doesn't suffer fools gladly.

Forms

suffer · suffers · suffered · suffering

suffering noun — The experience of pain, distress, or hardship.

sufferer noun — A person who experiences pain or hardship.

Similar words

endure
Emphasizes bearing hardship without giving up or escaping it.
tolerate
Emphasizes putting up with something disagreeable rather than experiencing harm.
undergo
Means experiencing a process or event, not necessarily something painful.