Inflict \In*flict"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Inflicted; p. pr. &
   vb. n. Inflicting.] [L. inflictus, p. p. of infligere to
   strike on, to inflict; pref. in- in, on + fligere to strike.
   Cf. Flail.]
   To give, cause, or produce by striking, or as if by striking;
   to apply forcibly; to lay or impose; to send; to cause to
   bear, feel, or suffer; as, to inflict blows; to inflict a
   wound with a dagger; to inflict severe pain by ingratitude;
   to inflict punishment on an offender; to inflict the penalty
   of death on a criminal.
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         What heart could wish, what hand inflict, this dire
         disgrace?                                --Drygen.
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         The persecution and the pain
         That man inflicts on all inferior kinds. --Cowper.
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