Smote: meaning, definitions and examples

⚔️
Add to dictionary

smote

 

[smoʊt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Smote is the past tense of the verb 'smite', which means to strike with a firm blow. In a historical or literary context, it is often associated with divine judgment or vengeance. The term can also refer to delivering a heavy impact, either physically or metaphorically. Smote is frequently used in religious texts and old literature to convey a sense of severity or righteousness in the act of striking.

Synonyms

assaulted, blasted, hit, struck.

Examples of usage

  • He smote the giant with his sword.
  • The plague smote the land.
  • She smote her rival in the debate.
  • Angels smote the sinners when commanded.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Originally from Old English 'smitan', meaning to strike or hit, illustrating its long history in the language.
  • Related to the Proto-Germanic word 'smītan', which means to smear or strike, showing connections to other Germanic languages.
  • The word evolved through Middle English, adapting its spelling and pronunciation over centuries.

Literature

  • Often used in biblical texts, like in the King James Version, where it denotes divine punishment or judgment.
  • Classic literature employs the term to create a dramatic effect, showcasing intense actions or emotional moments.
  • In many poems, 'smote' conveys a sudden and impactful realization or experience, reflective of strong emotions.

Psychology

  • The act of striking can be studied in the context of aggression and emotional responses, revealing how emotions can lead to physical actions.
  • Using 'smote' can evoke feelings of nostalgia for literature lovers, linking them back to dramatic scenes where characters acted with passion.
  • Language shapes our understanding of violence in media, with strong terms like 'smote' elevating the intensity of violent actions depicted.

Pop Culture

  • 'Smote' appears in many fantasy books and gaming, often to describe a hero’s powerful strike against evil.
  • The term was used in popular songs to describe love and loss, harnessing its dramatic flair to enhance storytelling.
  • Movies often utilize the word in epic battle scenes, helping to highlight significant moments of conflict.

Law and Justice

  • In historical contexts, the term can refer to the punishment of criminals, emphasizing the seriousness of judicial full measure.
  • The application of the word in court records or legal texts can imply a severe consequence for a wrongful act.
  • In medieval times, terms like 'smote' were often used in legal statutes to describe punishments for various crimes.

Translations

Translations of the word "smote" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bater

🇮🇳 मारना

🇩🇪 schlagen

🇮🇩 memukul

🇺🇦 бити

🇵🇱 bić

🇯🇵 打つ

🇫🇷 frapper

🇪🇸 golpear

🇹🇷 vurmak

🇰🇷 때리다

🇸🇦 يضرب

🇨🇿 bít

🇸🇰 biť

🇨🇳 

🇸🇮 udariti

🇮🇸 slá

🇰🇿 соғу

🇬🇪 მარტყმა

🇦🇿 vurma

🇲🇽 golpear

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,579, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.