Tar and feather somebody

usgb
verb

To punish someone publicly and severely, often in a humiliating way, especially for a crime or wrongdoing that has caused anger or outrage in society.

In the old days, they would tar and feather somebody for theft.
Visual representation of "tar and feather somebody" - To punish someone publicly and severely, often in a humiliating way, especially for a crime or wrongdoing that has caused anger or outrage in society

Often appears as...

  • tar and feather a thief
  • tar and feather a criminal

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "tar and feather somebody"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Historical Origin

Understand the literal history of tarring and feathering to grasp the magnitude of the metaphor.

Illustration for Historical Origin
Mentioning they'd tar and feather somebody in historical fiction evokes a brutal image.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Severity

Recognize that using this phrase suggests extreme disapproval or punishment.

Illustration for Severity
By saying they'd tar and feather somebody, he indicated how unacceptable the act was.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Social Anger

The phrase implies punishment is demanded by the wider community, not just an individual.

Illustration for Social Anger
After the scandal, the community acted like they wanted to tar and feather the official.
Visual representation of the word "Tar and feather somebody"

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