Meaning
To cause (someone) pain, suffering or distress.
Etymology
Origin: Middle English
From Middle English afflicten (attested in past participle afflicte), from Latin afflīctō (“to damage, harass, torment”), from ad- + flīctus, past participle of afflīgō (“strike, beat”), from ad- + flīgō (“strike”) (whence af-).
Synonyms & Antonyms
NYT Puzzle Appearances
Accepted in 3 recorded puzzles: