ache

ache · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A continuous or prolonged dull pain in a part of the body.

  2. 2.

    An emotional pain or longing.

  3. 3.

    Suffer from a continuous dull pain.

  4. 4.

    Feel intense sadness or longing.

Forms

plural: aches

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    aches and pains — Various minor physical discomforts.
  • •
    headache — Pain in the head.
  • •
    heartache — Emotional distress.
  • •
    backache — Pain in the back.
  • •
    toothache — Pain in a tooth.
  • •
    stomachache — Pain in the stomach.

Related words

Antonyms: comfort, relief
See also: aches, aching, hurt, pain
Synonyms: discomfort, pain, soreness, throbbing

Etymology

From Old English acan ("to ache, suffer pain"), from Proto-Germanic akaną. The spelling with "ch" reflects an older pronunciation.