Hecatomb

A hecatomb is, in its most literal sense, a large-scale sacrifice, typically of one hundred oxen or cattle. The term originates from the Ancient Greek hekatombe, derived from hekaton (one hundred) and bous (ox, cattle).

Beyond its literal meaning, the term "hecatomb" is frequently used figuratively to describe any large-scale slaughter or sacrifice, whether of people or animals. It implies a great loss of life and can refer to events ranging from large battles to natural disasters. The emphasis is on the scale of the destruction and the number of victims.

While originally associated with religious ritual, the modern usage of "hecatomb" usually lacks religious connotations and focuses instead on the sheer magnitude of the devastation.