scourge
Pronunciation:
/skɜːdʒ//skɔɹdʒ/noun
Definitions
A source of persistent trouble such as pestilence that causes pain and suffering or widespread destruction.
Example: Graffiti is the scourge of building owners everywhere.
A means to inflict such pain or destruction.
A whip, often of leather.
Example: He flogged him with a scourge.
verb
Definitions
To strike with a scourge; to flog.