flay
UK: fleɪ | US: fleɪ
vt. to strip off the skin or outer covering of something, especially by force
vt. to criticize harshly or severely
The word "flay" originates from Old English flēan, meaning "to strip off skin." It shares roots with Old Norse flá and Proto-Germanic flahaną, all carrying the same visceral sense of removing skin or outer layers. Over time, the word retained its literal meaning but also expanded metaphorically to describe harsh criticism—akin to stripping someone down verbally.
The hunter flayed the animal carefully to preserve the hide.
Critics flayed the director’s latest film for its weak plot.
In medieval times, flaying was sometimes used as a brutal punishment.
She flayed him with her sharp words during the argument.
The artisan flayed the bark from the tree to make traditional crafts.