crucifixion
(kruːsɪˈfɪkʃən)
[17th c. ad. mod. (16th c.) L. crucifixiōn-em, n. of action f. crucifī-gere to crucify: in F. occasional from c 1600, but never yet admitted by the Academy.]
1. a. The action of crucifying, or of putting to death on a cross. b. spec. the Crucifixion: that of Jesus Christ on Calvary.
| 1649 Jer. Taylor Gt. Exemp. iii. Ad §15. 132 The accidents happening from the apprehension till the crucifixion of Jesus. a 1729 R. Moss Serm. (1738) VIII. 364 The Jews, who had no such legal Punishment as Crucifixion. 1855 Milman Lat. Chr. iii. v. I. 375 The abolition of Crucifixion as a punishment by Constantine was an act..of religious reverence. 1858 J. Martineau Stud. Chr. 129 So studiously is every allusion to the crucifixion avoided. |
2. fig. † a. Torture, severe pain or anguish (quot. 1648). b. The action of ‘crucifying’ or mortifying (passions, sins, etc.).
| 1648 Herrick Hesper., To Sycamores, Do ye prove What crucifixions are in love? a 1711 Ken Hymnarium Poet. Wks. 1721 II. 111 They'll be my constant Crucifixions here. 1838 Pusey Par. Serm. (1873) III. iii, A crucifixion of our passions, appetites, desires. |
c. (See quot.)
| 1917 A. G. Empey From Fire Step 149 The famous Field Punishment No. 1. Tommy has nicknamed it ‘crucifixion’. It means that a man is spread-eagled on a limber wheel two hours a day for twenty-one days. During this time he only gets water, bully beef, and biscuits for his chow. You get ‘crucified’ for repeated minor offences. |
3. A picture or representation of the Crucifixion of Christ.
| 1841 W. Spalding Italy & It. Isl. II. 353 The masterpiece..is the celebrated Crucifixion. 1859 Jephson Brittany viii. 113 An incongruous collection of Crucifixions and Venuses. |