afflict
verb (used with object)
to distress with mental or bodily pain; trouble greatly or grievously.
are afflicting
-
present progressiveof afflict.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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.
Outbreaks of measles, diphtheria and severe diarrhea are afflicting more children and taking place more frequently because of a drop in vaccinations, health officials in Somalia’s southwest state said.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 4, 2025
This is especially true when you are discussing the specific problems and challenges that are afflicting white men in American society right now.
From Salon ● Feb. 13, 2023
The shortages are afflicting school districts large and small.
From Washington Post ● Dec. 3, 2021
Flash floods and severe heatwaves are afflicting much of Europe this summer.
From BBC ● Aug. 13, 2021
"The news I bring are afflicting, but the consolation with which they are attended, ought to moderate your grief."
From The Grammar of English Grammars by Goold Brown
