scourge

A source of persistent trouble such as pestilence that causes pain and suffering or widespread destruction.

“Graffiti is the scourge of building owners everywhere.”

A means to inflict such pain or destruction.

A whip, often of leather and often multi-tailed.

“He flogged him with a scourge.”

A whip used to inflict punishment

Something causing misery or death

“the bane of my life”

A person who inspires fear or dreadperson

“he was the terror of the neighborhood”

To strike with a scourge; to flog.

Punish severely; excoriate

Whip

“The religious fanatics flagellated themselves”

Cause extensive destruction or ruin utterly

“The enemy lay waste to the countryside after the invasion”