'afflict' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'afflictare,' where 'ad-' meant 'toward' and 'fligere' meant 'to strike.'

'afflictare' transformed into the Old French word 'aflicter,' and eventually became the modern English word 'afflict' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to strike or hit,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to cause pain or suffering.'