draw and quarter
The phrase "draw and quarter" originates from a brutal historical method of execution and is now often used metaphorically.
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Definition
C2Historical
(archaic, formal)To execute someone by dismembering their body, often involving hanging, disembowelling, and beheading.
C1Figurative
(informal, idiomatic)To severely punish or criticize someone.
Example
- If I fail this exam, my parents will draw and quarter me.
- The media will draw and quarter the politician for his controversial remarks.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "draw and quarter":
draw intodraw indraw neardraw outdraw ondraw strawsdraw ahead