Affliction
/əˈflɪk.ʃən/noun
A state of pain, distress, or grief; misery.
Did you know?In medieval times, afflictions were often seen as divine punishments, linking suffering to spiritual trials and witchcraft.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
afflictio
“A striking down or distressing of the mind or body.”
Old French
Old French
affliction
“Suffering, distress, or pain inflicted upon someone.”
Middle English
Middle English
affliccioun
“The act of causing pain or suffering.”
Modern English
English
affliction
“A state or cause of pain, either physical or emotional.”