In traditional astrology, this term refers to different situations where the energies of a planet are weakened or corrupt. In such situations, the planet finds great difficulty to express itself freely and in a positive way, as if it were in distress. A typical affliction is, for example, receiving a hard aspect – an opposition or square – from Saturn or Mars, traditionally regarded as Malefics, or from any other planet that is not compatible in nature. Another affliction is when a planet is “besieged”, being positioned between the two malefics.

In modern astrology, a planet is afflicted when it receives unfavourable aspects.