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rack

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word rack different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of rack are afflict, torment, torture, and try. While all these words mean "to inflict on a person something that is hard to bear," rack stresses straining or wrenching.

a body racked by pain

When would afflict be a good substitute for rack?

Although the words afflict and rack have much in common, afflict is a general term and applies to the causing of pain or suffering or of acute annoyance, embarrassment, or any distress.

ills that afflict the elderly

When is it sensible to use torment instead of rack?

The meanings of torment and rack largely overlap; however, torment suggests persecution or the repeated inflicting of suffering or annoyance.

a horse tormented by flies

Where would torture be a reasonable alternative to rack?

The words torture and rack can be used in similar contexts, but torture adds the implication of causing unbearable pain or suffering.

tortured by a sense of guilt

When is try a more appropriate choice than rack?

The words try and rack are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, try suggests imposing something that strains the powers of endurance or of self-control.

children often try their parents' patience

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of rack
Noun
Another highlight is the Art Deco-style Chartreuse for elegant French dishes—think garlic escargots and veal rack loin. Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025 Detractors claim this is proof that the trophy rack isn’t legit. Alex Robinson, Outdoor Life, 15 May 2025
Verb
Either way, the film is clearly intended as a broader metaphor for America at a moment when the country was racked by turmoil and transition. Mark Olsen, Los Angeles Times, 2 May 2025 Oath, a burgeoning platform that racks in donations for Democrats, directed over $35 million dollars to candidates during the 2024 election cycle. Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 25 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rack
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rack
Noun
  • Place the tallest plants at the back of the bed, with the shortest in front.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 30 May 2025
  • Add step stools with handrails by beds and in closets.
    Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 May 2025
Noun
  • The organization provides up to eight free mental health and counseling sessions to youth and their families who have experienced gun violence, abuse or emotional distress.
    Kamal Morgan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 May 2025
  • Noumea’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre notified Carnival Splendor about a distress call from a catamaran while the ship was traveling south of New Caledonia on Thursday, according to a news release.
    Nathan Diller, USA Today, 24 May 2025
Verb
  • In a region plagued by foreign interference and democratic decline, Traoré's message resonates with disillusioned youth.
    Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 May 2025
  • To top it off, an air traffic control meltdown plagued Newark Liberty International Airport for weeks after staffing shortages and technology outages caused hours-long delays.
    Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 23 May 2025
Verb
  • Brands began to pull together resources to support refugees.
    Stephan Rabimov, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2023
  • The 13-minute performance will likely call for a healthy dose of vibrant, colored lighting to pull it all together.
    Kelly Allen, House Beautiful, 10 Feb. 2023
Noun
  • Kylie can be heard asking her kids, as daughters Wyatt and Elliotte began singing a song together, and their sister Bennett smiled along on the couch.
    Kayla Grant, People.com, 26 May 2025
  • His favorite pastime is lounging on the couch, snuggled up for a good TV show.
    Maryanne Dell, Oc Register, 24 May 2025
Noun
  • Winant crystallizes this idea of crossing a indescribable threshold through her discussion and analysis of masochism, an intrinsic component of athletic practice that intertwines physical pleasure with pain.
    Jessica Simmons-Reid, Artforum, 1 June 2025
  • The research on seed oils has picked up over the past decade , including Zamora’s clinical trials that found limiting seed oils improved participants’ chronic pain.
    Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 31 May 2025
Verb
  • Leopoldo chose to be the voice of the people who elected him, and was persecuted for it.
    Imamu "Mu" Tomlinson, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
  • After being persecuted for the nature of her work, the political scientist arrived to the U.S. in 2022 on a visa.
    Nicole Acevedo, NBC news, 27 May 2025
Noun
  • Other notable features include a 12-bed bunk room and a spa with a Himalayan salt room, plus an entertaining complex decked out with a bar, a movie theater, a bowling alley, a sports simulator, an arcade, a cigar lounge, and a wine cave.
    Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 23 May 2025
  • The children’s bunk room is warm, sophisticated and cleverly designed.
    David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 22 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Rack.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rack. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

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