Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
pillories
noun
/ˈpɪləri/
Definition
A wooden framework with holes for the head and hands, used for public punishment.
Examples
- The thief was placed in the pillory to face public disgrace.
- In the past, the pillory served as a deterrent for would-be criminals.
- People would gather to mock those who were locked in the pillories.
Meaning
Pillories were historically used to punish and shame individuals by exposing them to public humiliation.
Synonyms
- stocks
- gallows
- scaffold
