Dictionary
1pillory
noun pil·lo·ry \ˈpi-lə-rē, ˈpil-rē\
: a device that was used in the past for punishing someone in public and that consists of a wooden frame with holes in which the head and hands can be locked
plural pil·lo·ries
Full Definition of PILLORY
1
: a device formerly used for publicly punishing offenders consisting of a wooden frame with holes in which the head and hands can be locked
2
: a means for exposing one to public scorn or ridicule
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Illustration of PILLORY
Origin of PILLORY
Middle English, from Anglo-French pilori
First Known Use: 13th century
2pillory
verb
: to publicly criticize (someone) in a very harsh way
pilloriedpillory·ing
Full Definition of PILLORY
transitive verb
1
: to set in a pillory as punishment
2
: to expose to public contempt, ridicule, or scorn
See pillory defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of PILLORY
circa 1600
PILLORY Defined for Kids
pillory
noun pil·lo·ry \ˈpi-lə-rē\
plural pil·lo·ries
Definition of PILLORY for Kids
: a device once used for punishing someone in public consisting of a wooden frame with holes in which the head and hands can be locked
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