ˈtorturesome,a.rare.|-səm| [f. torture n. + -some.] Characterized by, or causing torture; extremely painful or distressing. 1889E. Saltus Tristrem Varick 146 The enforced inactivity was torturesome as suspense.1906C. Mansfield Girl & Gods viii, Your life in every way must be one of exquisite or torturesome emotion.