Flog Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flog

[flษ’ษก ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal

A flog is a large, carnivorous bird of prey with a hooked beak, strong talons, and keen eyesight. Flogs are known for their ability to soar high in the sky and hunt for prey with great precision.

Synonyms

eagle, hawk, vulture.

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Word Description / Examples
flog

This word is often used in contexts involving punishment or severe criticism. It usually has a negative connotation and is associated with physical beating or harsh reprimanding.

  • The soldier was flogged for disobeying orders.
  • The manager flogged the employee for making a crucial mistake.
hawk

Hawk can be used in a literal context referring to a bird of prey or metaphorically to describe someone who is aggressive or supports aggressive policies, particularly in politics. It may have a slightly negative undertone when referring to a person.

  • The hawk circled above, searching for its next meal.
  • He is known as a political hawk, always pushing for military action.
eagle

Eagle is commonly used in contexts related to birds of prey, especially symbolizing strength, freedom, and vision. It often appears in settings involving nature, sports, or emblematic representations.

  • The eagle soared high above the mountains.
  • She has the keen eyes of an eagle.
vulture

This word is used to describe a scavenging bird, often with a strong negative connotation. It can also refer to people who exploit othersโ€™ misfortune or are seen as morally questionable.

  • The vulture waited for the animal to die before approaching.
  • He was seen as a corporate vulture, taking advantage of failing businesses.

Examples of usage

  • The flog spotted its prey from a distance and swooped down to catch it.
  • The flog's sharp talons helped it to grip its prey securely.
Context #2 | Verb

punishment

To flog means to beat someone with a whip or stick as a form of punishment. Flogging was a common practice in the past as a means of discipline or to extract information.

Synonyms

lash, spank, whip.

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Word Description / Examples
flog

This word appears to be repeated by mistake; refer to the first entry for its usage.

whip

Used in contexts where a flexible, often long tool is used to strike a person or animal. Can also mean to move quickly or suddenly.

  • The jockey whipped the horse to make it run faster.
  • He whipped around to face the intruder.
lash

Most commonly used to describe hitting with a whip or similar instrument, often creating a sharp sound and causing pain. This can also extend to verbal attacks.

  • The slave driver lashed the poor man mercilessly.
  • She lashed out at him with a string of harsh words.
spank

Used primarily to describe hitting someone's buttocks with an open hand, often as a form of discipline for children. Less severe than flogging or whipping.

  • The mother spanked her child for misbehaving.
  • He remembered being spanked as a child when he was naughty.

Examples of usage

  • The criminal was flogged in public as a punishment for his crimes.
  • The soldier was flogged for disobeying orders.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal History

  • Historically, flogging was a common punishment in many countries and was part of naval discipline.
  • Certain laws in maritime contexts permitted flogging for offenses like insubordination among sailors.

Pop Culture

  • In literature and films, flogging is often depicted as a form of severe punishment, mostly in historical or military contexts.
  • Flogging has been referenced in various songs and music, often symbolizing harsh treatment or tough love.

Psychology

  • Critically 'flogging' someone can also refer to berating oneself, leading to issues like low self-esteem or anxiety.
  • The concept of self-flogging in motivational contexts describes pushing oneself too hard, which can be detrimental.

Education

  • In some education contexts, the idea of 'flogging' refers to being overly critical, which may affect student morale.
  • Some teaching strategies advocate for positive reinforcement instead of flogging, highlighting the importance of encouragement.

Origin of 'flog'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'flog' comes from the Old English word 'flลgan', which meant 'to strike'.
  • In the 18th century, it was often used to describe the punishment given to sailors as a form of discipline.

The word 'flog' originated from the Old English word 'fleogan', which means 'to fly'. Over time, the meaning of 'flog' evolved to refer to a bird of prey and also to the act of beating as a form of punishment.


See also: flogging.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,509 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.