SCOURGE

noun to harass or afflict severely.

2. scourge ·noun to whip severely; to lash.

3. scourge ·noun hence, a means of inflicting punishment, vengeance, or suffering; an infliction of affliction; a punishment.

4. scourge ·noun a lash; a strap or cord; especially, a lash used to inflict pain or punishment; an instrument of punishment or discipline; a whip.

5. scourge ·noun to punish with severity; to chastise; to afflict, as for sins or faults, and with the purpose of correction.