WorldJuly 21, 2026
scourge
/skɜːrdʒ/
Definition
A person or thing that causes great suffering, misfortune, or widespread devastation.
Etymology
Derived from the Old French 'escorgier', meaning 'to whip', which traces back to the Vulgar Latin 'excorrigiare', composed of 'ex-' and 'corrigia' (thong or leather strap).
In the news
In the article, the term is used to describe the persistent threat of insecurity caused by criminal gangs. It highlights the severity and destructive nature of the violence that the international community is attempting to mitigate.
France will continue to stand alongside the people of Haiti
Read the full article ↗France ONU