Suffering
The sustained experience of pain β physical, psychological, or existential discomfort and discontent. What we try to avoid, what we tend to cause, and probably a purpose or result of life. (see also Pain or Pleasure)
How We Say It
sufΒ·ΙrΒ·ing
Where It Comes From
From Old French sufrir. From Latin sufferre β to bear, undergo, endure. From sub- (under) + ferre (to carry). Literally to bear up under β to carry a burden. The word originally encompassed any endurance β including patience and permission β before narrowing.
How It's Been Used
Central to Buddhism, where dukkha β usually translated as suffering β is the first noble truth. Christian theology centers redemptive suffering. Modern psychiatry distinguishes pain from suffering β pain as sensation, suffering as response. The reduction of suffering is the foundational ethical claim of utilitarianism.