Crucify

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈkruːsɪfaɪ/
• Rhymes: -aɪ

Origin

Old French crucefier, from Latin crucifigo.

Full definition of crucify

Verb

1. To execute (a person) by nailing to a cross.
2. To punish or otherwise express extreme anger at, especially as a scapegoat or target of outrage.
   After his public gaffe, he was crucified in the media.
• 1992, Tori Amos, Crucify (song)I crucify myself and nothing I do is good enough for you.
3. (informal) To thoroughly beat at a sport or game.
   West Ham beat Manchester City five nil - they crucified them!

Related terms

• crucifix
• crucifixion