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1. (n.) pillory
a wooden framework erected on a post, with holes for securing the head and hands, formerly used to expose an offender to public derision.
2. (v.t.) pillory
to set in the pillory.
3. pillory
to expose to public derision or abuse.
Etymology: (1225–75; ME pyllory < OF pilori, perh. < ML pīlōrium= L pīl(a) pillar (see pile1) +-ōrium -ory2)
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| Definition of 'pillory' |
Princeton's WordNet |
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1. (verb) pillory
a wooden instrument of punishment on a post with holes for the wrists and neck; offenders were locked in and so exposed to public scorn
2. (verb) pillory, gibbet
expose to ridicule or public scorn
3. (verb) pillory
punish by putting in a pillory
4. (verb) savage, blast, pillory, crucify
criticize harshly or violently
"The press savaged the new President"; "The critics crucified the author for plagiarizing a famous passage"
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| Definition of 'pillory' |
Webster Dictionary |
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1. (noun) pillory
a frame of adjustable boards erected on a post, and having holes through which the head and hands of an offender were thrust so as to be exposed in front of it
2. (verb) pillory
to set in, or punish with, the pillory
3. (verb) pillory
figuratively, to expose to public scorn
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| Definitions of 'pillory' |
The Nuttall Encyclopedia |
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1. pillory
an obsolete instrument of punishment for centuries in use all over Europe, consisted of a platform, an upright pole, and at a convenient height cross-boards with holes, in which the culprit's neck and wrists were placed and fastened; so fixed he was exposed in some public place to the insults and noxious missiles of the mob. Formerly in England the penalty of forgery, perjury, &c., it became after the Commonwealth a favourite punishment for seditious libellers. It was last inflicted in London in 1830, and was abolished by law in 1837.
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Definitions of pillory 
