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

See Examples For:

infliction

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

"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

The family is suing the company for breach of contract, negligence, infliction of emotional distress and violation of the California Health and Safety Code.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 16, 2026

Doe is also suing for malicious prosecution and intentional infliction of emotional distress, and seeks a jury trial.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 26, 2026

Can Hell itself afford an infliction more terrible than such a memory?

From Agincourt The Works of G. P. R. James, Volume XX by James, G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford)