Meaning

• Intentional causing of somebody's experiencing agony

  "In every war there are acts of torture that cause the world to shudder."

• The "suffering of the heart" imposed by one on another, as in personal relationships

  "Coventry City midfielder Josh Ruffels described his 11 months out injured as 'absolute torture' after the goalless draw with Derby County Under-21s. (http//www.ccfc.co.uk/news/article/eleven-months-of-absolute-torture-760652.aspx)"

• (often as "absolute torture") stage fright, severe embarrassment

Meaning

• To intentionally inflict severe pain or suffering on (someone).

  "In the aftermath of 9/11, we did some things that were wrong. We did a whole lot of things that were right, but, we tortured some folks. We did some things that were contrary to our values."