pillory
UK: ˈpɪləri | US: ˈpɪləri
n. a wooden framework with holes for the head and hands, used historically to publicly shame offenders
vt. to expose someone to public ridicule or criticism
pillory = pill<post> + ory<noun suffix>
- pill<post>: From Old French pilori (a pillory), derived from Latin pila (pillar, post). Refers to the physical structure.
- ory<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns denoting a place or instrument, from Latin -orium.
Etymology Origin:
The word pillory traces back to medieval punishment devices. The Latin pila (pillar) evolved into Old French pilori, referring to the wooden post used for public shaming. The suffix -ory (from Latin -orium) denotes a tool or place, solidifying its meaning as an instrument of humiliation. The term’s evolution mirrors the historical shift from physical restraint to metaphorical public scorn.
The thief was placed in the pillory for stealing bread.
Critics pilloried the politician for his controversial remarks.
In colonial times, the pillory was a common form of punishment.
The media often pillories celebrities for minor mistakes.
The novel’s protagonist fears being pilloried by society.