Find Synonyms
scourge Synonyms
Another word for scourge
Choosing another word for scourge depends on context, so the 19 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• noun (Context 1)
A person or thing that causes great trouble, widespread suffering, or devastation.
Usage Example
"Public health officials have worked for decades to eradicate the affliction of malaria in tropical regions."
Strongest
affliction
bane
curse
plague
Strong
blight
menace
torment
• verb (Context 2)
To cause great suffering, devastation, or hardship to a population or region.
Usage Example
"Severe drought has scourged the agricultural heartland for three consecutive summers."
Strongest
afflict
plague
ravage
Strong
devastate
torment
blight
harass
• noun (Context 3)
A whip or lash historically used to inflict severe physical punishment or penance.
Usage Example
"The medieval museum displayed an iron-tipped whip once used by ascetic monks."
Strongest
whip
lash
Strong
cat-o'-nine-tails
thong
• verb (Context 4)
To whip or beat severely with a lash as a punishment.
Usage Example
"In ancient times, prisoners were often scourged in the public square before being exiled."
Strongest
flog
whip
lash
flagellate
Strong
horsewhip
thrash
Opposites of scourge
The opposite of scourge shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
blessing
boon
bless
godsend
aid
benefit
relieve
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Scourge. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/scourge