crucifixion

noun

cru·​ci·​fix·​ion ˌkrü-sə-ˈfik-shən 

1

a

capitalized : the crucifying of Christ

b

: the act of crucifying

2

: extreme and painful punishment, affliction, or suffering

Examples of crucifixion in a Sentence

the crucifixion of the rebel Spartacus

Recent Examples on the Web

The Palm Sunday also includes a reading of the Passion, the story of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus. —Marina Johnson, The Indianapolis Star, 19 Mar. 2024

Rays of golden light beam down from a winged celestial being to pierce the humble saint’s hands, feet and side, echoing the mortal wounds suffered during Christ’s crucifixion. —Christopher Knight, Los Angeles Times, 9 Dec. 2024

Those living under its rule in a wide arc of Iraq and Syria — particularly members of other religions, or of other sects of Islam — faced horrifying punishments: decapitations, crucifixion, torture. —Nabih Bulos, Los Angeles Times, 2 Jan. 2025

Hillsides are dotted with crucifixions, but the victims hang from curving arcs, not crosses. —Gabriel Winslow-Yost, Harper's Magazine, 23 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for crucifixion

• antifriction
• benediction
• contradiction
• dereliction
• interdiction
• jurisdiction
• malediction
• addiction
• affliction
• constriction
• conviction
• depiction

Kids Definition

crucifixion

noun

cru·​ci·​fix·​ion ˌkrü-sə-ˈfik-shən 

1

capitalized : the crucifying of Jesus

2

: an act of crucifying