afflict etymology

Etymology of "Afflict"

"Afflict" originates from the Latin word "affligere," meaning "to strike down," "to dash to the ground," or "to weaken." It is derived from the following components:

  • "Ad-" (meaning "to" or "toward")
  • "Fligere" (meaning "to strike" or "to dash")

Meaning and Origin of "Afflict"

Meaning:

"Afflict" means to cause physical or mental pain, suffering, or distress. It typically implies sustained or intense negative experiences.

Origin:

The concept of "affliction" has a long history in religious and philosophical thought. In ancient times, it was often associated with divine punishment or the consequences of sin.

  • In the Old Testament of the Bible, "afflict" is used to describe various forms of hardship and suffering experienced by the Israelites.
  • In Greek philosophy, the Stoics believed that emotions such as pain and sorrow were external disturbances that should not be allowed to affect one's inner peace (ataraxia).
  • In Christianity, "affliction" is often seen as a test of faith or a means of purification.

Usage in Context

"Afflict" is often used in situations where severe physical or emotional distress is involved:

  • "The earthquake afflicted the community, leaving many homeless and injured."
  • "She was deeply afflicted by the loss of her loved one."
  • "Chronic pain has afflicted him for years."
  • "The war has afflicted the region, causing widespread suffering and displacement."

afflict relate terms

  • afflicted

    Etymology Middle English aflicten from Old French afliger from Latin affligere a co

  • afflict

    Etymology of Afflict Afflict originates from the Latin word affligere meaning to

  • affliction

    Etymology Middle English affliccioun from Anglo Norman French affliction from Latin

  • afflict

    Etymology of Afflict Afflict originates from the Latin word affligere meaning to

  • conflict

    Etymology The word conflict derives from the Latin word conflictus which means a st

  • inflict

    Etymology Old French enflechir or enfleichier Late Latin inflectere Proto Indo

  • profligate

    Etymology The word profligate comes from the Latin word proflīgātus which means

  • visit

    Etymology Latin visitare from visere meaning to go to see Ultimately derived fr

  • grief

    Etymology The word grief derives from the Old French word grever meaning to cause

  • supprise

    Etymology The word surprise derives from the medieval Latin word surpresa meaning

  • damage

    Etymology The word damage comes from the Old French word damager which means to inj

  • stress

    Etymology of stress The word stress comes from the Latin word stringere meaning

  • set up

    Etymology Meaning The study of the history of words and their origins Origin Greek