garrote: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Historical, Literary
Quick answer
What does “garrote” mean?
A method of execution or murder by strangulation, typically using a wire or cord tightened around the neck.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A method of execution or murder by strangulation, typically using a wire or cord tightened around the neck.
The device (a wire, cord, or metal collar) used for such strangulation; to execute or kill someone using such a device.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The spelling 'garrotte' is more common in British English, while 'garrote' is standard in American English. The verb forms follow the same spelling pattern.
Connotations
Identical strong connotations of violence and execution in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialized in both dialects, found in historical, true crime, and thriller contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “garrote” in a Sentence
[Subject] garrotes [Object] (with [Instrument])[Object] was garroted (by [Subject])Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “garrote” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The spy was garrotted with a piano wire.
- The historical accounts state the prisoners were to be garrotted at dawn.
American English
- The assassin garroted the target from behind.
- The novel's villain garrotes his victims with a unique device.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable.
American English
- Not applicable.
adjective
British English
- The garrotting wire was found at the scene.
- He faced a garrotting sentence.
American English
- They discovered a garrote wire in his pocket.
- The garrote mechanism was intricately designed.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in historical texts discussing execution methods or in criminology.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would only appear in discussions of crime or history.
Technical
Used in forensic pathology and historical weaponry contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “garrote”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “garrote”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “garrote”
- Misspelling as 'garrotte' in US English or 'garrote' in UK English. Incorrect pronunciation placing stress on the first syllable (/ˈɡærət/).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency word primarily encountered in historical, true crime, or thriller/spy fiction contexts.
'Garrote' specifically implies the use of a ligature (wire, cord) and often carries connotations of execution, assassination, or premeditated murder. 'Strangle' is a more general term for neck compression, which can be manual or with an object, and may be less premeditated.
The most common British English spelling is 'garrotte' (with two 't's), though 'garrote' is also understood.
Yes. As a noun: 'He fashioned a garrote from the wire.' As a verb: 'The agent was garroted in the alley.'
A method of execution or murder by strangulation, typically using a wire or cord tightened around the neck.
Garrote is usually formal, historical, literary in register.
Garrote: in British English it is pronounced /ɡəˈrɒt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɡəˈrɑːt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to this word.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a pirate saying 'GARR! I ROT you!' while tightening a rope. The 'GARR' sound starts 'garrote', and 'ROT' is in the middle.
Conceptual Metaphor
A GARROTE IS A SILENT TOOL OF CONTROL/TERMINATION.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'to garrote'?