Throes/θrəʊz/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Painful End Use 'throes' to describe intense suffering as something is ending or failing. The country is in the throes of economic collapse. Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Intensity Apply 'throes' to express powerful emotions or reactions, not just physical pain. He was in the throes of grief after the loss. Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use 'Throes' can metaphorically describe struggles in various contexts, like business or relationships. Their marriage was in the throes of conflict.