scourge Definition
- 1a person or thing that causes great suffering, destruction, or devastation
- 2a whip used as an instrument of punishment
- 3to cause great suffering or harm to someone or something
Using scourge: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "scourge" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The scourge of war has devastated the country.
Example
The disease was a scourge on the community.
Example
He was scourged and left for dead.
Example
The hurricane scourged the coast.
scourge Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for scourge
- curse
- affliction
- menace
- plague
- torment
Idioms Using scourge
Example
The coach scoured the team's performance after their loss.
Example
The dictator was considered the scourge of the earth by many of his citizens.
Example
The rise in violent crime is a scourge on society.
Phrases with scourge
a title given to Attila the Hun, who was believed to be sent by God to punish the sins of mankind
Example
Attila the Hun was known as the Scourge of God.
a term used to describe the devastating effects of poverty on individuals and communities
Example
The scourge of poverty is a major issue in many developing countries.
a term used to describe the negative impact of drug addiction on individuals and society
Example
The scourge of drugs has led to a rise in crime and social problems.
Origins of scourge
from Old French 'escorgier', meaning 'to whip'
Summary: scourge in Brief
The word 'scourge' [skurj] can refer to a person or thing that causes great suffering or devastation, such as 'The scourge of war has devastated the country.' It can also refer to a whip used for punishment. As a verb, it means to cause great harm or suffering, as in 'The hurricane scourged the coast.' The phrase 'scourge of poverty' describes the devastating effects of poverty, while idioms like 'scourge someone's back' mean to punish or criticize severely.
