A “hecatomb” is an ancient term that originally referred to a sacrifice of 100 cattle to the gods in ancient Greece. The term comes from the Greek words “hekaton” meaning “hundred” and “bous” meaning “ox.” Over time, the meaning of hecatomb has broadened to signify any large-scale sacrifice or slaughter, and it is often used metaphorically in modern language to describe a massive loss, destruction, or death.