What does hecatomb mean?
A hecatomb is an unusually large and destructive loss, usually of lives but sometimes of animals, buildings, or other things. In modern English it is a formal, often literary word for a massacre, catastrophe, or mass devastation. The expression can describe the direct result of violence or disaster and often carries a stronger, more solemn emotional force than “many casualties.” Its original meaning was more exact: a Greek sacrifice consisting of a hundred oxen. Over time, the word broadened from that prescribed ritual to any overwhelming destruction or sacrifice. Today it is usually figurative, though it can still refer to the ancient rite. A hecatomb is a memorable choice when the scale of ruin is itself significant, but its gravity makes it unsuitable for minor or everyday losses.
nounA large-scale sacrifice or destruction of many people, animals, or objects, especially as a result of a disaster or violent event. Originally, the term referred specifically to the sacrifice of a hundred oxen.
- A large-scale slaughter, sacrifice, or destructive loss of life or property, especially one caused by violence or disaster.
- Originally, the ancient sacrifice of a hundred oxen.
"The flood caused a hecatomb of destruction across the valley."
"The invasion was followed by a hecatomb of casualties and a massive displacement of the population."
"Archaeologists discovered evidence of a hecatomb of cattle at the ancient sanctuary."
The standard plural is hecatombs.
"The documents recount several hecatombs of animals performed during religious ceremonies."
Long before “a hundred” merely meant “a lot,” a hecatomb meant one hundred oxen.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hecatomb come from?
The English word was borrowed through Latin from Greek hekatombos, a compound of hekaton, meaning “hundred,” and bous, meaning “ox.” The original sense was therefore a sacrifice of a hundred oxen. Greek hekaton is cognate with Latin centum and ultimately related to English hundred and cent.
How hecatomb is actually used
Formal and literary, with modern usage usually figurative. The word is strongly emphatic and normally denotes mass death or devastation, making it unsuitable for small or routine losses.
Easily confused with hecatomb
A hecatomb is a large sacrifice or destructive loss, whereas a catacomb is an underground burial structure with a series of passages and chambers.