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Gibbet: meaning, definitions and examples

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gibbet

 

[ ˈdʒɪbɪt ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

historical punishment

A structure consisting of a wooden frame with a triangular shaped top, used in the past for displaying the bodies of executed criminals as a warning to others.

Synonyms

gallows, gallows-tree, hanging post

Examples of usage

  • The gibbet was a common sight in medieval England, serving as a deterrent for would-be criminals.
  • The condemned man's body was left hanging on the gibbet for weeks as a warning to others.
Context #2 | Verb

historical usage

To hang a person on a gibbet as a form of punishment or public display.

Examples of usage

  • The authorities decided to gibbet the pirate's body as a warning to other seafarers.
  • In the 18th century, it was not uncommon to gibbet the bodies of notorious criminals.

Translations

Translations of the word "gibbet" in other languages:

🇵🇹 forca

🇮🇳 फांसी का तख्ता

🇩🇪 Galg

🇮🇩 tiang gantungan

🇺🇦 шибениця

🇵🇱 szubienica

🇯🇵 絞首台 (kōshudai)

🇫🇷 potence

🇪🇸 horca

🇹🇷 darağacı

🇰🇷 교수대 (gyosudae)

🇸🇦 مشنقة (mashnaqa)

🇨🇿 šibenice

🇸🇰 šibenica

🇨🇳 绞刑架 (jiǎoxíng jià)

🇸🇮 vislice

🇮🇸 gálgi

🇰🇿 дар ағашы

🇬🇪 სასაკლაო (sasaklao)

🇦🇿 dar ağacı

🇲🇽 horca

Etymology

The word 'gibbet' originated from the Old French word 'gibet', meaning 'gallows'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to a structure for displaying executed criminals. The practice of gibbeting was common in medieval Europe as a means of deterrence and public punishment.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,501, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.