Definition

A method of torture where a person is lifted by their wrists tied behind their back and then dropped suddenly, causing pain.

Example

The historical records describe the use of strappado as a brutal form of punishment.

Conversation

Did you read about the history of torture methods?

Yeah, some of them are really disturbing, like the strappado.

I can't believe people actually used that for punishment.

It's horrifying to think about what people went through back then.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Strappado is derived from the Italian word 'strappare' (meaning to pull or to tear) combined with the suffix '-ado', which indicates a state or condition. The term originally referred to a method of torture involving hanging by the arms, thus evoking the idea of being pulled or torn by one's own weight.

Memory Tip

Imagine being 'pulled' ('strappare') in a painful way, which helps you remember that 'strappado' refers to a form of torture involving hanging.

Visually Confused Words