kataballein

Kataballein is an ancient Greek verb (Greek καταβάλλειν or καταβάλειν) meaning "to throw down" or "to cast down." The form is built from kata- meaning "down" and ballein meaning "to throw." In classical Greek literature it covers a range of senses, including the literal act of throwing something to the ground, defeating or overthrowing an enemy or city, and laying down or removing a burden or obstacle. Metaphorically it can mean to humble, debase, or subdue a person, passion, or rival idea.

In political or military contexts, kataballein can describe overthrowing a government, subjugating opponents, or breaking a siege by force. In moral or religious discourse it may denote casting down idols or false beliefs, or overcoming temptation and vice. Rhetorically, it can express strong action aimed at abolishing what is perceived as danger or folly.

Grammatical notes: kataballein is the present active infinitive of the verb and appears across genres in ancient Greek texts. In translation, meanings vary with context between "to cast down," "to overthrow," or "to lay down." The term is primarily of interest to philology and classical studies, illustrating how Greek expresses physical force, political power, and moral or intellectual subjugation through a single verb.