Canings are a form of physical punishment that involves striking a person with a cane, typically on their buttocks or back. However, there are various synonyms for this word that can be used to describe similar forms of punishment. These include whippings, floggings, beatings, lashings, and flagellations. Each of these terms describes an act of punishment that involves striking a person with a whip, rod, or other object. While these words may differ slightly in their connotations or historical contexts, they all share the common element of inflicting pain and discomfort in order to discipline or punish someone.