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View synonyms for cat-o'-nine-tails
cat-o'-nine-tails
[ kat-uh-nahyn-teylz ]
noun
, plural cat-o'-nine-tails.
- a whip, usually having nine knotted lines or cords fastened to a handle, used for flogging.
cat-o'-nine-tails
noun
- a rope whip consisting of nine knotted thongs, used formerly to flog prisoners Often shortened tocat
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Word History and Origins
Origin of cat-o'-nine-tails1
First recorded in 1685–95; so called in allusion to a cat's scratches
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Example Sentences
The old gentleman was clad in clerical black, with his cat-o-nine tails thrust into his girdle like a sword.
From Project Gutenberg
This law meant the use of the cat-o-nine tails as a regular punishment, but did not prohibit blows to enforce immediate obedience.
From Project Gutenberg
Pity we left the cat-o-nine-tails out on the boat, said the second man.
From Project Gutenberg
You have forgotten it; but in my beardless days, I offended Mr. Athelstone in a way that deserved a cat-o-nine-tails.
From Project Gutenberg
As soon as ever I uncovered myself, they laid on to my back with a rope made into a cat-o-nine-tails.
From Project Gutenberg
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