cat-o'-nine-tails

[ kat-uh-nahyn-teylz ]

noun

, plural cat-o'-nine-tails.

1. a whip, usually having nine knotted lines or cords fastened to a handle, used for flogging.

cat-o'-nine-tails

noun

1. a rope whip consisting of nine knotted thongs, used formerly to flog prisoners Often shortened tocat

Word History and Origins

Origin of cat-o'-nine-tails¹

First recorded in 1685–95; so called in allusion to a cat's scratches

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

Related Words

• cane