gal·lows
ˈga-(ˌ)lōz
-ləz,
in sense 3 also
-ləs
plural gallows also gallowses
1
a
or less commonly gallows tree plural gallows trees
: a frame usually of two upright posts and a transverse beam from which a noose is suspended and that is used for executions by hanging
… I'll be lucky if they don't whip me to the bone. More likely I'll be hung from the gallows.—Sid Fleischman
b
: the punishment of execution by hanging
2
: a structure consisting of an upright frame with a crosspiece
… it's all hands on deck when the captain decides to raise or lower the sail. This is a demanding and dangerous maneuver as the yard and furled sail normally rest on gallows in line with the ship …—Rich Harbert
3
dated
: suspender sense 2a
: deserving the gallows see also gallows bird, gallows humor
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share