The word "afflicter" refers to someone or something that causes suffering or distress. There are various synonyms for this word, each carrying their own nuance. For instance, a "tormentor" typically implies intentional cruelty or harassment. A "plaguer" suggests the spread of a disease or disaster. A "persecutor" connotes the mistreatment of an individual or group due to race, religion, or political views. A "misery-maker" is a more informal term that broadly encompasses anything causing emotional or physical pain. Regardless of the synonym used, an afflicter is something or someone to be avoided or addressed with care.