Definition

A method of torture where a person is made to feel like they are drowning by having water poured over their face while they are restrained.

Example

The use of waterboarding has been widely condemned by human rights organizations.

Conversation

Have you heard about the controversies surrounding waterboarding?

Yeah, it's pretty disturbing how it’s used as an interrogation method.

I can't believe it's still a topic of debate today.

Right? It feels like there should be a clear stance against such practices.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Waterboarding is formed from "water" (from Old English "wæter", meaning liquid that falls as rain or is found in rivers and lakes) and "boarding" (from the verb "board", meaning to get on or to cover). The term describes a method of torture that simulates drowning by covering the victim's face with a cloth and pouring water over it, creating the sensation of drowning.

Memory Tip

Think of 'water' as the liquid involved and 'boarding' as the act of covering or getting on something. This helps you remember that waterboarding involves covering someone with water to create a feeling of drowning.

Visually Confused Words