scathe
UK: skeɪð | US: skeɪð
vt. to harm or injure, especially by scorching or withering
n. damage or harm caused by scorching, blight, or criticism
The word "scathe" traces back to Old Norse skáða, meaning "to harm" or "injure." It entered Middle English as scathen, retaining its core sense of physical or verbal damage. Over time, it became less common in everyday usage but persists in literary contexts, often evoking vivid imagery of destruction (e.g., "scorched earth"). The modern verb "scathe" and noun "scathing" (harshly critical) both derive from this root, emphasizing enduring linguistic logic: harm → criticism.
The wildfire scathed the forest, leaving charred trees in its wake.
Her scathing review dismantled the film’s flawed plot.
The knight emerged from battle unscathed.
Frost can scathe delicate crops overnight.
His reputation was scathed by the scandal.