verb
afflict
uh-FLIKT/əˈflɪkt/
To cause someone pain or suffering.
Sharp back pain afflicts the person trying to lift the laundry basket.
Etymology
The components formed a verb meaning to dash down or overthrow. That physical image of striking someone down broadened into causing suffering in body or mind.
In context
he can deprive them of the benefit of the sun and the rain and consequently afflict the inhabitants with death and disease
More examples
- The disease afflicted several members of the family.
- Persistent doubts afflict him whenever he makes an important choice.
- The report describes problems afflicting the city's schools.
Forms
afflict · afflicts · afflicted · afflicting
affliction noun — A source or state of painful suffering.