A "scourge" refers to a source of great suffering or destruction. It can be a person, event, or thing that causes widespread harm or distress. Historically, the term has been used to describe diseases, wars, or oppressive regimes that inflict pain on populations. In literature and discussions, a scourge often symbolizes a significant challenge or threat that must be confronted. For example, pestilence can be seen as a scourge when it devastates communities, while tyranny may represent a political scourge that undermines freedom and justice.