Gallows: meaning, definitions and examples

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gallows

 

[ ˈɡæl.oʊz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

criminal justice system

A structure typically consisting of a wooden frame with a rope for hanging criminals as a form of execution. Gallows were historically used as a method of capital punishment to carry out sentences of death.

Synonyms

gallows-tree, gibbet, scaffold

Examples of usage

  • The condemned man was led to the gallows to face his punishment.
  • The crowd gathered to witness the hanging on the gallows.
Context #2 | Noun

figurative

A situation or position of great danger, difficulty, or uncertainty.

Synonyms

peril, precipice, risk

Examples of usage

  • The company was on the brink of financial collapse, facing the gallows of bankruptcy.
  • He knew that his reckless actions had brought him to the gallows of public shame.

Translations

Translations of the word "gallows" in other languages:

🇵🇹 forca

🇮🇳 फांसी का फंदा

🇩🇪 Galgen

🇮🇩 tiang gantungan

🇺🇦 шибениця

🇵🇱 szubienica

🇯🇵 絞首台

🇫🇷 potence

🇪🇸 horca

🇹🇷 darağacı

🇰🇷 교수대

🇸🇦 مشنقة

🇨🇿 šibenice

🇸🇰 šibenica

🇨🇳 绞刑架

🇸🇮 vislice

🇮🇸 gálgi

🇰🇿 дар

🇬🇪 საკიდი

🇦🇿 darağacı

🇲🇽 horca

Word origin

The word 'gallows' originated from Old English 'galga' which meant 'cross, gallows'. It has been used since the Middle Ages as a structure for executing criminals by hanging. Gallows have a dark and macabre history, symbolizing the ultimate form of punishment. Over time, the word has also been used figuratively to represent a dire situation or impending doom.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,975, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.