affliction
UK: əˈflɪkʃ(ə)n | US: əˈflɪkʃən
n. a state of pain, distress, or grief
n. something that causes suffering or hardship
affliction = af<intensive> + flict<strike> + ion<noun suffix>
- af (variant of "ad-," meaning "to" or "intensive," from Latin ad)
- flict (from Latin fligere, meaning "to strike" or "dash")
- ion (noun-forming suffix indicating an action or condition)
Etymology Origin:
The word "affliction" traces back to Latin afflictio, derived from affligere ("to strike down" or "torment"). The prefix af- (intensifying "ad-") combined with flict (from fligere, "to strike") conveys the idea of being struck repeatedly or severely. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe persistent suffering or distress, reflecting both physical and emotional hardship.
The loss of her job was a great affliction.
He bore his chronic illness with quiet dignity, despite the affliction.
War brings untold affliction to innocent civilians.
The village suffered under the affliction of drought for years.
Her kindness eased the affliction of those in need.