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.

Words that share this root

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

What's another word for guillotine?

beheading execution decapitation capital punishment sudden end termination

What's the opposite of guillotine?

mercy pardon reprieve

Rhymes with guillotine

tonne clone alone bone