Meaning & Definition of word "Afflict"
Afflict
/əˈflɪkt/
verb:
- 1. to cause pain or suffering to someone or something.
- Example: The disease afflicts millions of people worldwide.
- 2. To trouble or distress; to cause to be in pain.
- Example: His constant worry about the future afflicts his peace of mind.
- 3. To impose distress or hardship upon; to torment.
- Example: Natural disasters can afflict communities with severe damage and loss.
- 4. To affect or impact negatively.
- Example: Economic downturns often afflict the working class the most.
Etymology
●from Latin 'afflictus', past participle of 'affligere', meaning 'to strike down'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
afflict someone with:
to cause someone to suffer from something.
Related Words
affliction:
a state of pain, distress, or grief.
afflictive:
causing or expressing pain or suffering.