Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
thumbscrew
noun
/ˈθʌmˌskruː/
Definition
A device used to exert pressure or torture, consisting of a metal screw that is tightened with the thumb.
Examples
- The investigator used a thumbscrew technique to extract a confession.
- Fearing the consequences, he felt as if the thumbscrew of responsibility was tightening around him.
Meaning
Historically, a thumbscrew was a torture instrument, but in modern usage, it can refer to a situation or method that puts someone under pressure.
Synonyms
- Coercion
- Pressure
- Duress
