The word "bastinado" is spelled as /bæstɪˈneɪdoʊ/. The phonetic transcription shows that the stress is on the second syllable, which is pronounced as /ti/. The word refers to a form of punishment which involves beating the soles of a person's feet with a stick or cane. The spelling of the word is derived from the Spanish word "bastonada," which means "a blow with a stick." Despite being a rarely used word, it is important to know the correct spelling and pronunciation to communicate effectively.
Bastinado is a noun derived from the Spanish word "bastón," which means "stick" or "cane." It refers to a method of punishment or torture involving the administration of blows or strikes to the soles of the feet. This method of corporal punishment was historically practiced in various cultures and societies as a means of discipline, torture, or coercion.
The bastinado typically involves the restrained individual being either held or suspended while their feet are exposed and then struck repeatedly with a stick, cane, or similar implement. The intensity and frequency of the strikes can vary depending on the purpose and severity of the punishment. The strikes are usually aimed at the sensitive nerve endings and bones on the soles of the feet, inflicting significant pain and discomfort.
Bastinado can be traced back to ancient times, where it was utilized as a punitive measure. It has been employed by authorities, military personnel, or captors for extracting confessions, punishment, or simply asserting dominance over individuals. While originally used for disciplinary purposes, the punishment often escalated to a means of torture, inflicting pain and suffering on the victim.
However, it is essential to recognize that the practice of bastinado is now considered inhumane and generally illegal in most countries due to its cruel nature and violation of human rights. Nonetheless, the term "bastinado" is still used to describe historical practices and has become a grim reminder of past methods of punishment and torture.
• To give a sound beating to with a stick.
• A punishment in use among many Eastern nations by which the offender is beaten on the soles of the feet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "bastinado" is derived from the Spanish term "bastonada", which itself comes from the Spanish word "bastón" meaning "stick" or "cane". The term was originally used to describe a method of punishment in which a person was beaten or struck with a stick or cudgel, especially on the soles of the feet. This form of punishment, also known as "falanga", was commonly used in Mediterranean countries during the medieval and early modern periods. The word "bastinado" later entered the English language in the mid-17th century to refer to this particular form of corporal punishment.