On the rack

usgb
phrase

Experiencing intense stress or suffering.

He's been on the rack since losing his job and not finding a new one.
Visual representation of "on the rack" - Experiencing intense stress or suffering

Often appears as...

  • put someone on the rack
  • be on the rack

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "on the rack"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Stress

Used to show that someone is experiencing a lot of emotional stress, like worry or fear.

Illustration for Emotional Stress
After the scandal, he's been on the rack, scared to face his colleagues.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Physical metaphor

The phrase stems from the idea of being stretched painfully on a medieval torture device, the rack.

Illustration for Physical metaphor
Waiting for the test results felt like being on the rack.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Informal Use

It's an informal phrase, more appropriate in casual conversations, not formal situations.

Illustration for Informal Use
She's been on the rack ever since the breakup, dude.
Visual representation of the word "On the rack"

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