torture
noun
the act of inflicting excruciating pain, as punishment or revenge, as a means of getting a confession or information, or for sheer cruelty.
have been torturing
-
present perfect progressiveof torture.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The worms have been torturing humans since before history began.
From New York Times ● Apr. 22, 2013
When Briony was obliged by her cousin’s fierce stare to raise an eyebrow, she continued, “The twins have been torturing me.”
From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan
Without attempting to change the position which must have been torturing him, he filled the pipe bowl, his fingers moving as if he had partially lost control of them.
From Bull Hunter by Max Brand
We have been torturing ourselves about long enough for the sake of others.
From The Progressionists, and Angela. by Conrad von Bolanden
“Do you really mean, my dear fellow, that the monsters have been torturing you in this way?” asked Miles, with looks of sympathy.
From Blue Lights Hot Work in the Soudan by R. M. (Robert Michael) Ballantyne
