Ravage
/ˈræ.vɪdʒ/noun
To cause severe and extensive damage to something.
Did you know?The term 'ravage' is derived from Latin, where it originally described the violent act of plundering and destruction, often associated with war and chaos.
Etymological Timeline
Late Latin
Latin
rapina
“Seizure or plunder, typically through violence.”
Old French
Old French
ravage
“Devastation, destruction, or pillaging.”
14th Century
Middle English
ravage
“To ruin or destroy through violent action.”
Modern English
English
ravage
“To violently damage or devastate, often used in the context of war or disaster.”