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Smote Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'smote'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'smote' derives from Old English 'smitan', meaning to strike or hit. The usage of 'smote' as the past tense form appeared in Middle English, where it held a strong connotation of striking forcefully. Over the centuries, it evolved into both a literal and metaphorical term for inflicting damage or judgment. In many religious texts, especially the Bible, the term is employed to describe divine intervention, emphasizing the power and authority behind the action. Such usage has cemented 'smote' in historical and literary contexts, making it a term often found in epic tales, poetry, and religious writings.

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.