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

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

These include: Palm Sunday: commemorating when Jesus entered Jerusalem Holy Thursday: commemorating the Last Supper and washing of feet Good Friday: commemorating Jesus' crucifixion and death Easter Sunday: commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Why is Easter 2024 in March? —Marley Malenfant, Austin American-Statesman, 26 Mar. 2024

Palm Sunday: commemorating when Jesus entered Jerusalem Holy Thursday: commemorating the Last Supper and washing of feet Good Friday: commemorating Jesus' crucifixion and death Easter Sunday: commemorating the resurrection of Jesus When is Easter this year? —Joyce Orlando, The Tennessean, 20 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

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

Kids Definition

crucifixion

noun

cru·​ci·​fix·​ion ˌkrü-sə-ˈfik-shən 

1

capitalized : the crucifying of Jesus

2

: an act of crucifying