wrenching
UK: ˈrɛntʃɪŋ | US: ˈrɛntʃɪŋ
adj. causing great physical or emotional pain; violently twisting or pulling
v. (present participle of wrench) forcibly pulling or twisting something
The word wrench originates from Old English wrencan ("to twist, turn, deceive"), related to Proto-Germanic wrankijaną ("to twist"). The core idea of violent twisting persists in its modern meaning, both literally (physical force) and figuratively (emotional distress). The suffix -ing forms the present participle, indicating ongoing action or a resulting state.
The wrenching pain in her knee made walking difficult.
He let out a wrenching cry when he heard the tragic news.
The mechanic applied a wrenching motion to loosen the rusted bolt.
The documentary portrayed the wrenching struggles of refugees.
She described the decision as wrenching but necessary.