Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

empale

verb

/ɪmˈpeɪl/

Definition

To pierce or transfix with a sharp instrument.

Examples

The hunter hoped to empale the fish on his spear.
In historical contexts, enemies were sometimes empaled to serve as a warning.
The artist’s installation featured sculptures that appeared to empale various objects.

Meaning

Empale refers to the act of stabbing or impaling someone or something on a sharp stake or a similar object. This term often evokes imagery of violence or torture, where a person is left suspended on a sharp point.