afflict
UK: əˈflɪkt | US: əˈflɪkt
vt. to cause pain, suffering, or distress to someone
vt. to trouble or torment persistently
The word "afflict" originates from Latin afflictare, a frequentative form of affligere ("to dash down" or "strike against"). The prefix "af-" (ad-) intensifies the root "flict," which conveys forceful impact. Over time, the meaning shifted from physical striking to metaphorical suffering, reflecting how emotional or mental distress can feel like repeated blows.
Chronic pain can afflict even the healthiest individuals.
The region was afflicted by a severe drought last year.
She refused to let misfortune afflict her spirit.
Many ancient texts describe how gods afflict mortals with trials.
The disease continues to afflict thousands worldwide.