Dictionary

self–flagellation

noun self–flag·el·la·tion \-ˌfla-jə-ˈlā-shən\

: the act of hitting yourself with a whip as a way to punish yourself or as part of a religious ritual

Full Definition of SELF-FLAGELLATION

:  extreme criticism of oneself
self–fla·gel·late \-ˈfla-jə-ˌlāt\ verb
ADVERTISEMENT

First Known Use of SELF-FLAGELLATION

1925

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: self–flatteringPrevious Word in the Dictionary: self–fertilizingAll Words Near: self-flagellation
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears