Guillotine — Definition & Meaning

What does guillotine mean?

noun

A machine for beheading people, typically by means of a heavy blade falling from a height, or a method of execution by this means. A sudden and decisive end to something.

Example

"The guillotine was used as a method of execution during the French Revolution."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymologically related

French guillotine, from the name of Joseph Ignace Guillotin, a French physician who advocated its use, from his name, from the Old French guillot, a type of sword

Synonyms for guillotine

beheading execution decapitation capital punishment sudden end termination

Antonyms of guillotine

mercy pardon reprieve

Rhymes with guillotine

tonne clone alone bone