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Plague: meaning, definitions and examples

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plague

 

[ pleɪɡ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

disease

A plague is a widespread disease that affects a large number of people or animals.

Synonyms

epidemic, outbreak, pandemic.

Examples of usage

  • The Black Death was a devastating plague that swept through Europe in the 14th century.
  • The bubonic plague caused millions of deaths during the Middle Ages.
Context #2 | Noun

trouble

A plague can also refer to a disastrous or troublesome situation that causes widespread suffering or distress.

Synonyms

calamity, disaster, misfortune.

Examples of usage

  • The plague of corruption in the government led to widespread protests.
  • The economic plague of poverty affects millions of people around the world.
Context #3 | Verb

annoy

To plague someone means to cause continual trouble or distress to them.

Synonyms

bother, haunt, torment.

Examples of usage

  • She was plagued by persistent doubts about her abilities.
  • The city was plagued by traffic congestion during rush hour.

Translations

Translations of the word "plague" in other languages:

🇵🇹 peste

🇮🇳 महामारी

🇩🇪 Pest

🇮🇩 wabah

🇺🇦 чума

🇵🇱 dżuma

🇯🇵 ペスト

🇫🇷 peste

🇪🇸 peste

🇹🇷 veba

🇰🇷 흑사병

🇸🇦 طاعون

🇨🇿 mor

🇸🇰 mor

🇨🇳 瘟疫

🇸🇮 kuga

🇮🇸 plága

🇰🇿 оба

🇬🇪 შავი ჭირი

🇦🇿 taun

🇲🇽 peste

Etymology

The word 'plague' originated from the Latin word 'plaga' meaning 'a blow or wound'. In the 14th century, it specifically referred to the bubonic plague. Over time, its meaning expanded to include any widespread disease or calamity. The word has been used to describe various epidemics and troubles throughout history, symbolizing suffering and devastation.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,982 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.