Thumbscrew
/ˈθʌmskruː/
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/2Historic Cruelty
Shows the violent methods used to force confessions in history.
Museums may display a thumbscrew to illustrate medieval torture.
Pro Tip 2/2Archaic Term
Rarely used in modern conversation, except to describe historical events.
He described the inquisition's use of the thumbscrew.
Compare with
ScrewdriverSpannerWrench
Never forget "Thumbscrew"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension