TYB
I think he said scourge (skûrj)
n.
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A source of widespread dreadful affliction and devastation such as that caused by pestilence or war.
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A means of inflicting severe suffering, vengeance, or punishment.
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A small whip used to inflict punishment.
tr.v. scourged, scourg·ing, scourg·es
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To afflict with severe or widespread suffering and devastation; ravage.
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To chastise severely; excoriate.
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To flog.
Thought that was Ellen