The word "rout" has several related meanings: As a noun:
- It refers to a panicked, disorderly, and undisciplined retreat of troops from a battlefield after a collapse in command and morale.
- More generally, it means an overwhelming defeat or a situation where the winner defeats the loser by a large amount, often used in sports or contests.
- It can also mean a disorderly crowd or mob.
As a verb:
- To rout means to defeat someone easily and completely in a contest, battle, or competition.
- It also means to force someone or something to move from a place, often implying causing a disorderly retreat.
- Additionally, it can mean to dig or search thoroughly (like digging up roots or searching for something).
The term often implies total defeat and a chaotic retreat or breaking up of a group, especially in a military context. In sports or politics, it refers to a decisive, overwhelming victory over an opponent. Pronunciation is typically /raʊt/ ("r-out"). Summary: Rout means to utterly defeat and cause a disorderly retreat or overwhelming defeat, often accompanied by chaos and disorganization. It can be used both as a noun and a verb in military, sports, or general contexts. Would you like examples or more detailed usage?
