What is another word for thumbscrews?
Pronunciation: [θˈʌmbskɹuːz] (IPA) 
Thumbscrews are a barbaric device used in the past to inflict pain on prisoners during interrogations. Synonyms for thumbscrews include thumbkin, thumb screws, pilliwinks, and finger pillories. These devices were made of metal and had screws that would be tightened, crushing the fingers and causing excruciating pain. Other synonyms include presses, clamps, and instruments of torture. Thumbscrews were often used as a form of punishment during medieval times and were also used to extract confessions. Even though these devices are no longer used, the term thumbscrews is still used metaphorically to describe situations where someone is under extreme pressure.
