Plague

A plague is a contagious bacterial disease characterized by fever and delirium, typically with the formation of buboes (swellings) and often followed by death. Metaphorically, a plague can refer to any widespread affliction or calamity, a significant social or economic disruption, or a persistent annoyance. It represents a devastating event causing widespread suffering, mortality, and societal breakdown. Historically and in modern times, a plague can manifest as a literal epidemic or a figurative problem like social unrest or a damaging phenomenon. It also can be a widespread negative effect. It leaves a lasting impact of fear, loss, and societal transformation.

Plague meaning with examples

• The Black Death, a bubonic plague pandemic in the 14th century, decimated Europe's population, causing widespread death and social upheaval. Quarantine practices emerged in an attempt to contain the contagion. Cities were emptied and trade routes were disrupted. The economic fallout lasted centuries and the societal landscape was changed for all time.
• Modern-day poverty is sometimes considered a plague on society, driving crime, poor health and limited opportunities for advancement. It creates cycles of disadvantage across generations and is a root cause of many social ills. The need to address systematic and structural causes is critical.
• The plague of online misinformation, or fake news, is making it difficult to distinguish between fact and fiction in digital communication. It spreads rapidly across social media. Public trust is eroded by the bombardment of misleading content. This phenomenon has a damaging effect on democratic processes.
• The incessant plague of mosquitoes during the summer made it impossible to sit outside and enjoy the warm evenings, a constant source of irritation. The annoyance affected outdoor activities and made it necessary to retreat indoors to be comfortable, interrupting social lives and relaxing routines.
• A political corruption plague plagued the government, resulting in public distrust and hindering progress on vital projects. The pervasive scandal eroded the legitimacy of public institutions and damaged the public's faith in the political process, which also led to a need for stricter enforcement to deter more violations.