self-flagellation

noun

self-flag·​el·​la·​tion ˌself-ˌfla-jə-ˈlā-shən 

: extreme criticism of oneself

self-flagellate

ˌself-ˈfla-jə-ˌlāt 

verb

Examples of self-flagellation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some supporters performed self-flagellation on the streets, while others waved Iranian as well as red and black flags symbolizing mourning and revenge. — ABC News, 8 July 2026

In Baghdad, thousands marched through the streets, including some who slashed their heads with razors and performed other forms of self-flagellation in a show of grief to mark the occasion. — Fadi Tawil, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026

In 1994 Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was also a cleric with the rank of ayatollah, issued a fatwa forbidding the practice of self-flagellation. — Charles Preston, Encyclopedia Britannica, 22 May 2026

Grace's departure is handled carefully in John of John, even buried under the gross tonnage of John Mcleod's flaws and relentless self-flagellation. — Paula Cooper, CBS News, 5 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1925, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-flagellation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration