verb
inflict
in-FLIKT/ɪnˈflɪkt/
To impose something painful, harmful, or unwanted on someone.
The man inflicts pain by forcefully twisting the woman's wrist.
Etymology
Striking against someone is the original image behind inflict. The meaning broadened to laying or imposing something that must be suffered, including pain, harm, or hardship.
In context
occasionally I want to inflict a little discomfort with your permission
More examples
- The storm inflicted heavy losses on local farmers.
- Please don't inflict another long speech on us.
- Such neglect inflicts unnecessary suffering on patients.
Forms
inflict · inflicts · inflicted · inflicting
infliction noun — The act of imposing harm or suffering.