σπαράσσω
Etym. akin to σπαίρω
1. "to tear, rend in pieces, mangle", Lat. lacerare, Eur., Ar.:—Mid., σπαράσσεσθαι κόμας "to tear one's" hair, Eur.
2. "to rend asunder", Aesch.
3. metaph. "to pull to pieces, attack", Lat. conviciis lacerare, Ar., Plat.