Chinese water torture

noun

: a form of torture in which a person is restrained and subjected to repetitive drips of water on the forehead

I heard beeping for two days … It was driving me crazy like Chinese water torture.

—Carol Kallberg, Daily Record (Wooster, Ohio), 14 Oct. 2012

—often used figuratively

Better to execute layoffs quickly and decisively, experts say … The alternate—the drip-drip-drip of repeated downsizings—is a Chinese water torture that kills morale and productivity.

—Daniel McGinn, Newsweek, 25 June 2001

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now