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gibbet

 - 3 dictionary results

gib⋅bet

  [jib-it] noun, verb, -bet⋅ed, -bet⋅ing.
Use gibbet in a Sentence
–noun
1. a gallows with a projecting arm at the top, from which the bodies of criminals were formerly hung in chains and left suspended after execution.
–verb (used with object)
2. to hang on a gibbet.
3. to put to death by hanging on a gibbet.
4. to hold up to public scorn.
Origin:
1175–1225; ME < OF gibet (earlier, staff or cudgel), dim. of gibe staff, club
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To gibbet
gib·bet   (jĭb'ĭt)   
n.  

  1. A device used for hanging a person until dead; a gallows.

  2. An upright post with a crosspiece, forming a T-shaped structure from which executed criminals were formerly hung for public viewing.

tr.v.   gib·bet·ed or gib·bet·ted, gib·bet·ing or gib·bet·ting, gib·bets

  1. To execute by hanging on a gibbet.

    1. To hang on a gibbet for public viewing.

    2. To expose to infamy or public ridicule.


[Middle English gibet, from Old French, diminutive of gibe, staff, probably from Frankish *gibb, forked stick.]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Word Origin & History

gibbet  (n.)
c.1225, "gallows," from O.Fr. gibet, dim. of gibe "club," perhaps from Frank. *gibb "forked stick." The verb meaning "to kill by hanging" is from 1646.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2001 Douglas Harper
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