PILLORY: "to hold up to publish scorn; punish

"Pillory" can be used as both a noun and a verb.

As a noun, a "pillory" refers to a wooden framework with holes for the head and hands, used to secure and expose individuals to public scorn or ridicule as a form of punishment.

As a verb, "to pillory" means to expose someone to public ridicule or criticism.

Etymology: The term "pillory" comes from the Old French word "piler," meaning "to plunder" or "to depredate." It was later influenced by the Latin word "pila," meaning "pillar" or "post."

Sample Sentences:

1. In medieval times, offenders were often placed in the pillory as a form of public punishment.

2. The politician was pilloried in the media for his controversial statements.

3. The community decided to pillory the dishonest merchant by boycotting his business.

4. The comedian's attempt to pillory the political figures resulted in a heated debate.

5. The editorial sought to pillory the company for its unethical business practices.

Synonyms: ridicule, humiliate, expose, mock, denounce

Antonyms: praise, commend, applaud

clipped from en.wikipedia.org Rather like the lesser punishment called the stocks, the pillory consisted of hinged wooden boards that formed holes through which the head and/or various limbs were inserted; then the boards were locked together to secure the captive. Pillories were set up in marketplaces and crossroads to hold petty criminals. Often a placard detailing the crime was placed nearby; these punishments generally lasted only a few hours. Time in the pillory was more dangerous than in the stocks, as the pillory forced the malfeasant to remain standing and exposed.