Knouting is a term used to describe punishment by flogging, whipping, or beating a person with a knout, a whip made of rawhide or leather strips attached to a long handle. Some synonyms for the word knouting include scourging, lashing, flagellation, castigation, thrashing, and flaying. These words describe acts of punishment or discipline that involve the use of physical force to inflict pain or discomfort on a person. Knouting was used in many societies throughout history as a means of punishment for various crimes, including political dissent, disobedience, and criminal behavior. While it is no longer used in many modern societies, the word knouting persists as a reminder of a painful and brutal practice.