"Burns at stake" is a phrase that refers to the cruel punishment of burning someone alive for holding certain beliefs. Some synonyms for this phrase include "burned alive," "burned at the stake," "burned to death," "roasted alive," and "set on fire." These phrases are often used to describe the brutal executions that took place during the Inquisition, as well as other periods of history where people were persecuted for their beliefs. Although these phrases may differ in their precise connotations, they all evoke the same sense of horror and injustice associated with this gruesome form of punishment.