garrotte
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɡəˈrɒt/
KK: /gəˈrät/
noun
Definition
A device or cord used to strangle someone, often associated with execution methods.
Example
The historical use of the garrotte in Spain was a grim reminder of past punishments.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of a garrotte?
Yeah, I read about it in a history book; it sounds pretty brutal.
Right? It's hard to believe something like a garrotte was actually used for executions.
Definitely! It's interesting yet really disturbing at the same time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
strangler
noose
cord
Antonyms
savior
protector
rescuer
verb
Definition
To kill someone by tightly wrapping something around their neck to stop them from breathing.
Example
The detective discovered that the victim had been garrotted in a dark alley.
Tense Forms
Past: garrotted
Past Participle: garrotted
Conversation
Did you hear about that movie where they garrotte the villain in the end?
Yeah, I heard it was really intense!
I can't believe they would actually show something like that.
Root Explanation
Garrotte comes from the French word 'garrotter', which means to strangle or bind. The root 'garrot-' is derived from the Spanish 'garrote', meaning a stick or club used for strangling. The word refers to a method of execution or murder by strangulation.
Memory Tip
Think of the French word 'garrotter' which means to strangle, helping you remember that 'garrotte' refers to a method of strangulation.
Visually Confused Words
gavotte