Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
sanbenito
Noun
/ˌsænbəˈniːtoʊ/
Definition
A garment worn as a form of penance in the Catholic Church, often used to signify disgrace or public shame.
Examples
- Many were forced to wear the sanbenito during the Inquisition as a symbol of their alleged sins.
- In artwork from the period, figures in the sanbenito are often depicted to critique the harsh treatment of the accused.
Meaning
Historically, the sanbenito was used during the Spanish Inquisition for individuals accused of heresy or other serious offenses, serving to both punish and publicly identify the accused.
Synonyms
- Shame garment
- Penance robe
- Disgrace attire
