Afflicted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
afflicted
[ษหflษชktษชd ]
Definition
experiencing pain
The term 'afflicted' refers to someone or something that is suffering or experiencing distress, particularly due to illness, injury, or misfortune. It indicates a state of being burdened or troubled, often in a way that is significant or overwhelming. When used in a medical or emotional context, it highlights the severity of the condition or situation affecting the subject. This term is often used in literature and media to convey empathy towards those in difficult circumstances.
Synonyms
anguished, distressed, suffering, tormented, troubled.
Examples of usage
- The afflicted are seeking help from local charities.
- He felt afflicted by his chronic health issues.
- The disaster left many people afflicted and in need of support.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Shakespeareโs works, characters often face affliction both in spirit and body, highlighting the human experience of pain.
- The concept of being afflicted is a common theme in classic literature, where protagonists undergo significant struggles to invoke sympathy and growth.
Health
- Afflicted can refer to those suffering from physical ailments, mental health disorders, or emotional distress.
- Chronic illnesses are often described as conditions that afflict individuals, impacting their daily lives and wellbeing.
Psychology
- Affliction in psychological contexts can refer to emotional or mental pain caused by trauma or stress.
- Understanding how people manage their afflictions is crucial in therapeutic settings and can lead to resilience.
Pop Culture
- The term 'afflicted' is often used in movies and TV shows to describe characters coping with tragic events, enhancing drama and depth.
- Songs and poetry frequently explore themes of affliction, connecting with listeners through shared experiences of hardship.
Origin of 'afflicted'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'afflicted' comes from the Latin word 'afflictus', which means 'to strike down' or 'overwhelm'.
- It originally described being hit by something, either physically or emotionally, and has evolved over time to refer primarily to suffering or distress.
The word 'afflicted' originates from Middle English 'afflicten', which itself is derived from the Latin 'afflฤซctus', the past participle of 'afflฤซgere', meaning 'to strike down, overthrow, or struggle against'. In its early usage, the term primarily described physical ailments or injuries but gradually expanded to encompass emotional and mental distress. Throughout history, the term has been used in various literary and religious texts, often to express compassion towards those enduring hardship. Its roots can be traced back to concepts of being struck down by fate or circumstance, reflecting a broader understanding of suffering in human experience. Over time, 'afflicted' has maintained its relevance in discussions about health, social issues, and the human condition.