falanga

noun

fa·​lan·​ga

fəˈläŋgə,

-aŋ-

plural -s

: a method of torture in which the soles of the feet are beaten

Word History

Etymology

probably from New Greek phalanga, oblique form of phalangas bastinado, modification (probably influenced by New Greek phalangi roller put under a ship) of Turkish falaka whiffletree, staff and loop for holding the feet of a bastinado victim, bastinado, from Arabic falaqa

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Rhymes for falanga

• conga
• longa
• sanga