flogging
FLOG-ing
/ˈflɒɡɪŋ/
A punishment in which the victim is whipped or beaten with a stick.
A specific, severe form of corporal punishment, often associated with naval or colonial history.
The story behind the word. The origin is somewhat obscure but likely related to the Latin 'flagellum' (whip). It became a common term in the 17th century for judicial and military beatings.
Word relationships
- whipping: Whipping is a more general term; flogging often implies a formal or systematic beating.
Commonly confused with
- chastisement: Chastisement is a broader term for any punishment; flogging is specifically physical and severe.
Word family
- flog (verb): To beat with a whip or stick.
Collocations
- public flogging
- sentence of flogging
- administer a flogging
Idioms & expressions
- flogging a dead horse
Example sentences
- "Flogging was once a common naval punishment for sailors who disobeyed orders or attempted to desert." Historical history
- "The international community condemned the use of public flogging as a violation of basic human rights." Human rights report
Memory hook
Flogging = Flagellum. Think of a whip flying like a flag. Beating with a whip.
When not to use
Do not use for a light slap or a verbal scolding.
Fun facts
- The 'cat-o'-nine-tails' was a specific type of whip used for floggings in the British Royal Navy.
- Flogging was abolished in the U.S. Navy in 1850.
Related words
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