flagellation

[ flaj-uh-ley-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act or process of flagellating.
2. a masochistic or sadistic act in which the participants receive erotic stimulation from whipping or being whipped.

Other Words From

• self-flagel·lation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of flagellation¹

1400–50; late Middle English < Late Latin flagellātiōn-, stem of flagellātiō. See flagellate, -ion

Example Sentences

Then again, it’s a level of flagellation he feels he deserves, which packs even more of a punch.

From New York Times

I decided to take a break from the self flagellation, resulting from wasting clamshells of salad greens each week and do something different.

From Salon

“There is so much flagellation as an artist; I need to be constantly throwing myself onto the ground for my work,” Hills said, adding that time in the spa has been a gift.

From New York Times

Perhaps that sounds more like flagellation than it does fandom, but I’ve heard this point brought up by multiple people over the past few days.

From Seattle Times

With their compelling blend of brain and brawn, flair and flagellation, they battered the mighty All Blacks in the autumn and put Ireland to the sword in Paris a fortnight ago.

From BBC

Related Words

• spanking
• whipping