What is another word for thumbscrew?

Pronunciation: [θˈʌmbskɹuː] (IPA)

Thumbscrew is a medieval torture device used for crushing a person's thumbs. The term "thumbscrew" is now often used metaphorically to describe a situation or experience that is extremely uncomfortable or distressing. Synonyms for thumbscrew include vice, press, clamp, grip, pinching, crushing and torture. These words often connote the idea of pressure, confinement, or restraining. The use of these terms in place of thumbscrew helps to convey the intense emotional and physical pain that is being experienced. Regardless of the word chosen, each one reminds us of the terrible suffering caused by torture and the need for humanity to reject its use.

What are the hypernyms for Thumbscrew?

A hypernym is a word with a broad meaning that encompasses more specific words called hyponyms.

What are the hyponyms for Thumbscrew?

Hyponyms are more specific words categorized under a broader term, known as a hypernym.

Usage examples for Thumbscrew

A couple of turns with the thumbscrew will suffice to get out of a boy of that age everything he knows.
"By Pike and Dyke: A Tale of the Rise of the Dutch Republic"
G.A. Henty
They spoke of Antonoff, who was subjected to the thumbscrew, had red-hot wires thrust under his nails, and when his torturers gave him a little respite he would scratch on his plate cipher signals to his comrades.
"Looking Seaward Again"
Walter Runciman
There seemed a ton-weight upon his heart, which a mighty sigh could lift for an instant, but not remove; and he was in the act of heaving a second such sigh, as he languidly opened the door-expecting to encounter Mr. thumbscrew, or some of his myrmidons, who might not know of his recent settlement with his landlady.
"Ten Thousand a-Year. Volume 1."
Samuel Warren

Famous quotes with Thumbscrew

  • When reading the Renaissance authors who spread their religious ideas by laughter rather than by thumbscrew and stake, we find that they do not limit themselves to the few places in Scripture where laughter is presented as desirable and good. Both theology and their own sense of fun lead them to find laughter from one end of the Bible to the other.
    Michael Andrew Screech

Related words: thumb screw, thumb screws, thumb screwdriver, thumb screw fastener

Related questions:

  • What is a thumbscrew?
  • How to use a thumbscrew?
  • How to remove a thumbscrew?
  • What is the purpose of a thumbscrew?
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