Dictionary > Scourge

Scourge

scourge
1. A lash; a strap or cord; especially, a lash used to inflict pain or punishment; an instrument of punishment or discipline; a whip. Up to coach then goes The observed maid, takes both the scourge and reins. (Chapman)
2. Hence, a means of inflicting punishment, vengeance, or suffering; an infliction of affliction; a punishment. Sharp scourges of adversity. (Chaucer) What scourge for perjury Can this dark monarchy afford false Clarence? (Shak)
Origin: F. Escourgee, fr. L. Excoriata (sc. Scutica) a stripped off (lash or whip), fr. Excoriate to strip, to skin. See Excoriate.
1. To whip severely; to lash. is it lawful for you to scourge a . . . Roman? (acts xxii. 25)
2. To punish with severity; to chastise; to afflict, as for sins or faults, and with the purpose of correction. Whom the lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. (Heb. Xii. 6)
3. To harass or afflict severely. To scourge and impoverish the people. (Brougham)
Origin: From Scourge,: cf. OF. Escorgier.

Last updated on February 27th, 2021

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