plague etymology

Etymology:

The word "plague" comes from the Latin word "plaga," which means "blow" or "wound." It is related to the verb "plago," meaning "to strike," and the noun "plaga," meaning "a blow, stroke, or wound."

Meaning:

A plague is a devastating epidemic disease that typically causes high mortality rates. It is usually caused by a bacterium or virus that can spread rapidly through a population. Plagues have historically had a profound impact on human societies, causing widespread death and social disruption.

Origin:

The first recorded use of the word "plague" in English dates back to the 14th century, when it was used to refer to the Black Death, a devastating pandemic that killed an estimated 25-50% of the European population. The term was subsequently used to describe other major epidemics throughout history, including the Great Plague of London in the 17th century and the bubonic plague pandemic in the 19th century.

Common Usages:

• Bubonic plague: A bacterial infection that is transmitted through bites from infected fleas. It causes painful swellings (buboes) in the lymph nodes.
• Pneumonic plague: A bacterial infection that affects the lungs. It is transmitted through inhaling respiratory droplets from infected individuals.
• Septicemic plague: A bacterial infection that spreads through the bloodstream. It can lead to organ failure and death.
• The plague: A historic reference to the Black Death or other major plague outbreaks.

Additional Notes:

• The "plague" used in biblical contexts typically refers to divine punishment or disaster rather than a specific disease.
• The term "plague" is sometimes used figuratively to describe a severe problem or calamity. For example, a "plague of locusts" refers to a large infestation of locusts that can cause significant damage to crops.

plague relate terms

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  Etymology Origin Greek apoplexia from apo away plexia stroke First use in

• plague

  Etymology The word plague comes from the Latin word plaga which means blow or wo

• plaguey

  Etymology From Middle English plagy from Medieval Latin plaga ultimately from Latin p

• plague

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• apoplexy

  Etymology Origin Greek apoplexia from apo away plexia stroke First use in

• cataplexy

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• plaint

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• plangent

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• planxty

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• plague

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• plectrum

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• Delian

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• carbine

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• pest

  Etymology The word pest originates from the Latin word pestis which means plague o

• nettle

  Etymology Middle English netele nettle Old English netele Proto Germanic netilaz P