gallows

American  

[gal-ohz, -uhz] / ˈgæl oʊz, -əz /

noun

plural

gallowses, gallows

1. a wooden frame, consisting of a crossbeam on two uprights, on which condemned persons are executed by hanging.

2. a similar structure from which something is suspended.

3. execution by hanging.

   a crime deserving of the gallows.

4. Also called gallows bitts.  Nautical. a support on the deck of a vessel, generally one of two or more, consisting of a crosspiece on two uprights, for spars, boats, etc.

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gallows British  

/ ˈɡæləʊz /

noun

1. a wooden structure usually consisting of two upright posts with a crossbeam from which a rope is suspended, used for hanging criminals

2. any timber structure resembling this, such as (in Australia and New Zealand) a frame for hoisting up the bodies of slaughtered cattle

3. execution by hanging

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Etymology

Origin of gallows

before 900; Middle English galwes, Old English g ( e ) algan, plural of g ( e ) alga gallows; cognate with German Galgen

Example Sentences

Some of the chat leading up to this game involved the gallows humour so close to the heart of most members of the Tartan Army.

From BBC • Oct. 12, 2025

For local establishments, the newly offered specials are part gallows humor, part business gamble.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 8, 2025

Newsrooms being breeding grounds for gallows humor, most also understand that futility is a terrific comedy catalyst.

From Salon • Sep. 4, 2025

These songs tap into the bottomless well that Mexicans have for gallows humor.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 4, 2025

The gallows is cut up and thrown on the fire, where it nicely roasts our fish for supper.

From "Blood on the River" by Elisa Carbone