crown of thorns

(noun) any affliction that causes great suffering. Synonyms: cross, crown of thorns. Examples: "That is his cross to bear." "He bears his afflictions like a crown of thorns."

(noun) somewhat climbing bushy spurge of Madagascar having long woody spiny stems with few leaves and flowers with scarlet bracts. Synonyms: crown of thorns, Christ thorn, Christ plant, Euphorbia milii.

(noun) a mock crown made of thorn branches that Roman soldiers placed on Jesus before the Crucifixion. Synonyms: crown of thorns.