infliction

American  

[in-flik-shuhn] / ɪnˈflɪk ʃən /

noun

1. the act of inflicting.

2. something inflicted, as punishment or suffering.

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Other Word Forms

• preinfliction
  noun

Etymology

Origin of infliction

First recorded in 1525–35, infliction is from the Late Latin word inflīctiōn- (stem of inflīctiō ). See inflict, -ion

Explanation

Infliction is when you subject someone to a difficult or unpleasant experience. The infliction of pain on a little kid who needs to get a shot is not fun for him or for his parents. The noun infliction is good for talking about imposing something negative on someone. You might describe a bully's actions against a smaller child as including both the infliction of pain and the infliction of fear. The Latin root of infliction is inflictionem, or "a striking against," from inflictus, "to strike or dash against." It's important not to confuse infliction with affliction, which means "something that causes pain," but isn't done on purpose.

Example Sentences

Infliction or expulsion was the alternative! and as the form of government was a despotism—like all despotisms—it was subject, at intervals, to great convulsions.

From Rattlin the Reefer by Marryat, Frederick

“But don’t you think it may one of these days come to grief?” pursued the Infliction.

From Fordham's Feud by Mitford, Bertram

“Don’t you think it very dangerous to cross the lake in a small boat?” struck in the Infliction, at his elbow.

From Fordham's Feud by Mitford, Bertram

“But don’t you think you are painting poor Grindelwald in very unattractive colours?” expostulated the Infliction.

From Fordham's Feud by Mitford, Bertram