Gallows: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used to refer to the structure for hanging criminals as a form of capital punishment.

• The criminal was sentenced to hang on the gallows
• The gallows stood tall in the town square as a grim reminder

Can refer to the same structure as gallows but is also used to describe the act of displaying a body after execution as a warning. This term often has a more historical connotation.

• The body was left to rot on the gibbet as a warning to others
• In olden times, criminals were sometimes displayed on a gibbet after their execution

An archaic or poetic term for the structure used for hangings, often evoked in literature.

• The old gallows-tree was a haunting sight in the moonlight
• Legends spoke of the spirits dwelling around the gallows-tree

Refers to a temporary structure built for executions, not limited to hangings but also other forms of public execution. It can also mean a platform used in construction.

• The condemned stood on the scaffold, awaiting his fate
• The scaffold was erected in the town center for the upcoming execution

Gallows refers to a structure used for hanging criminals as a form of execution. It has a dark, historical connotation and is generally used in discussions about historical punishments and justice.

• The condemned man was led to the gallows at dawn.
• Stories of the old West often include scenes of outlaws facing the gallows.

Peril is used to describe a serious and immediate danger. It fits well in both literal and figurative contexts, such as life-threatening situations or significant risks.

• The explorers were in great peril when their boat capsized.
• Ignoring the warnings, they ventured into peril.

Risk involves the possibility of loss, harm, or danger. It is commonly used in situations involving potential future events or actions that carry negative consequences.

• Investing in stocks always carries an element of risk.
• She took a risk by starting her own business.

Precipice specifically refers to a very steep rock face or cliff, often indicating the edge of a dangerous situation. It can be used literally to describe a geographical feature, or metaphorically to depict a critical or risky situation.

• He stood on the precipice, looking at the valley below.
• The company found itself on the precipice of bankruptcy.