Garroting: meaning, definitions and examples

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garroting

 

[ gəˈrōt ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

method of execution

Garroting is a method of strangulation typically employed as a form of execution or assassination. It often involves the use of a cord or wire to choke the victim, leading to unconsciousness and eventual death. Historically, this practice has been associated with torture and is depicted in various forms of media as a violent act. The process is lethal due to the pressure applied to the neck, which restricts blood flow to the brain and ultimately causes death.

Synonyms

choking, hanging, strangulation

Examples of usage

  • The criminal was sentenced to death by garroting.
  • In some countries, garroting was a common method of execution.
  • The film depicted a scene where the villain resorted to garroting his enemy.
Context #2 | Verb

act of strangulation

To garrote someone means to kill them by strangulation, usually with a wire or cord. This violent act can be done quietly, making it a favored method in covert assassinations. Garroting as a verb indicates the action of executing someone through this means, often portrayed in criminal contexts.

Synonyms

choke, strangle, throttle

Examples of usage

  • The assassin attempted to garrote the target silently.
  • He was known to garrote his victims before fleeing the scene.
  • The detective found evidence suggesting that the victim had been garroted.

Translations

Translations of the word "garroting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estrangulamento

🇮🇳 गला घोटना

🇩🇪 Ersticken

🇮🇩 mencekik

🇺🇦 задушення

🇵🇱 duszenie

🇯🇵 絞殺

🇫🇷 étranglement

🇪🇸 estrangulación

🇹🇷 boğma

🇰🇷 교살

🇸🇦 خنق

🇨🇿 uškrcení

🇸🇰 uškrcenie

🇨🇳 勒死

🇸🇮 dušenje

🇮🇸 kvelja

🇰🇿 бұрау

🇬🇪 დახრჩობა

🇦🇿 boğma

🇲🇽 estrangulación

Word origin

The word 'garroting' derives from the Spanish term 'garrote', which initially referred to a type of execution involving a thick wooden stick used to choke a victim. This practice dates back to the late Middle Ages when it was utilized predominantly in Spain and its colonies as a method of capital punishment. The garrote was formally recognized in penal codes of various countries and was sometimes used in public executions, which were intended to serve as a deterrent. Over time, 'garroting' has evolved to describe similar methods of strangulation in various contexts, extending beyond legal execution to include criminal acts. Its use continues to be prevalent in literature and film, where it often symbolizes stealthy and violent behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,204, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.