ACHY Synonyms: 44 Similar and Opposite Words

achy

adjective

ˈā-kē

Definition of achy

as in sore

causing or feeling bodily pain unable to play in tomorrow's football game because of an achy right knee

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 achy These ergonomic neoprene handle wraps provide additional cushioning around the handles of your carry-on or checked suitcase, a dream for tired, achy hands after a day of tugging luggage. — Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 24 June 2026 The on-sale, supremely supportive, shock-absorbing Max Cushioning Endeavour Canova Sneakers are achy feet’s dream, whether they’re worn for standing, walking, or running. — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 23 June 2026 Early symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, fatigue and achy muscles. — Jane Weaver, NBC news, 29 May 2026 Symptoms include dull, achy or heavy pain in the pelvis; less commonly, pain can feel sharp and intense, according to Cleveland Clinic. — Alyssa Goldberg, USA Today, 24 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for achy

Recent Examples of Synonyms for achy

Adjective

Harvard Health Publishing notes that sloppy technique can strain the neck and leave you stiff and sore, which happen to be some of the same symptoms people blame on tech neck.

— Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 8 Oct. 2026
My arm is sore from holding my phone at arm’s length for 10 minutes during the media scrum after the show.

— Vogue, Vogue, 8 Oct. 2026

Definition of sore

Adjective

The homestretch of the drama, however, takes the story in a chilling direction, packing an aching quantity of feeling into a single glance at a security camera as someone climbs into a car and leaves the compound, never to be heard from again.

— Leslie Felperin, HollywoodReporter, 26 May 2026
Charles Frazier, Cold Mountain (1997) Charles Frazier’s Cold Mountain is an aching, tender slow burn shaped by absence.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 3 Apr. 2026

Definition of aching

Adjective

As a young, aspiring writer, Perry yearned for dramatic, painful experiences to give her something to write about.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 8 Oct. 2026
The album explores heartbreak, healing, faith and survival while shining a light on some of the most painful chapters of Judd's life, including her complicated relationship with her late mother Naomi Judd and Kelley's struggles.

— Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 8 Oct. 2026

Definition of painful

Browse Nearby Words

achromatic

achy

acid

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Achy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/achy. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

Copy Citation

Synonyms of achy

adjective

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

deportment

Popular in Grammar & Usage

Do You Need a New Language Peeve?

The Exceptions of '-s' and '-es' Plurals

Merriam-Webster’s Great Big List of Words You Love to Hate

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

What's the difference between 'fascism' and 'socialism'?

Popular in Wordplay

The Real Origin of 'Supercalifragilistic'

9 Words That Sound Like Insults But Aren't

7 Words for Bad Endings and Rough Situations

The Words of the Week - Oct. 9

Why do we call it a 'flea market'?

Popular

Do You Need a New Language Peeve?

The Real Origin of 'Supercalifragilistic'

9 Words That Sound Like Insults But Aren't

Games & Quizzes