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.

What heart could wish, what hand inflict, this dire disgrace?

The persecution and the pain
That man inflicts on all inferior kinds.

• to thrust upon; to impose
       They inflicted terrible pains on her to obtain a confession.