Synonyms for Suffer

Definition of suffer

verb
  1. undergo or be subjected to; "He suffered the penalty"; "Many saints suffered martyrdom"
  2. undergo (as of injuries and illnesses); "She suffered a fracture in the accident"; "He had an insulin shock after eating three candy bars"; "She got a bruise on her leg"; "He got his arm broken in the scuffle"
  3. experience (emotional) pain; "Every time her husband gets drunk, she suffers"

13 synonyms found

Writing tips for "suffer"

Choosing the right synonym depends on context, tone, and audience. Words like abide, ache, bear can replace "suffer" depending on the shade of meaning you need. In poetry and songwriting, swapping synonyms lets you match a rhyme scheme or meter without changing your meaning. In prose, varying your word choice avoids repetition and keeps readers engaged.

With 13 alternatives available, "suffer" gives you flexibility across registers — from formal to casual, from literary to conversational. Try pairing these synonyms with our rhyme finder to discover words that both mean and sound like what you need.

"Suffer" in song lyrics

See how suffer is used in real songs:

  • "A 45 tucker, nine mili' make em suffer"
    50/50 Twin f/ H.A.W.K., Ankaman — Freestyle
  • "Pretend like her gills didn't dry up and suffer"
    Aesop Rock — The Harbor Is Yours
  • "It's okay mom cuz your baby didn't suffer"
    Aztlan Underground — Killing Season

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