infliction
AmericanOther Word Forms
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.
Vocabulary lists containing infliction
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Mendoza sued Peters for battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, fraud and unauthorized publication of her name and likeness.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 22, 2026
In March 2026, the classmate filed a civil lawsuit naming Griffin, ghostwriter Sam Lansky and the book’s publisher, alleging invasion of privacy, negligence and infliction of emotional distress.
From Salon ● Jun. 25, 2026
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Maurice Leiter allowed Svetnoy's claims of negligence and intentional infliction of emotional distress, but threw out a claim of assault, according to documents released on Friday.
From BBC ● Apr. 18, 2026
"There is no military objective that justifies the wholesale destruction of a society's infrastructure or the deliberate infliction of suffering on civilian populations," he added.
From BBC ● Apr. 7, 2026
Even poor Zara did not altogether escape; but, as we are hurrying on to important events, we must pass over her share of infliction.
From The Smuggler: (Vol's I-III) A Tale by G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford) James
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