Pronunciation: [tˈa͡ɪɡə kˈe͡ɪd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
"Tiger cage" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈtaɪɡər keɪdʒ/. The first syllable, "tiger," is pronounced with a long "i" sound as in "eye" followed by the "g" sound and a short "e" vowel. The second syllable, "cage," starts with a "k" sound and ends with a "j" sound, represented by the "g" and "e" letters respectively. This spelling accurately represents the sounds in the word "tiger cage."
A tiger cage is a term commonly used to describe a form of imprisonment or confinement typically associated with oppressive regimes, particularly during periods of political unrest or dictatorship. It refers to a small, cramped and often inhumane enclosure where individuals perceived as dissenters, activists, or political prisoners are confined, tormented, and subjected to various forms of physical, emotional, and psychological abuse.
The term "tiger cage" originates from the actual cages used to house and hold captive tigers in zoos. These cages are designed to restrict the freedom of movement and natural behaviors of the animal. Similarly, a human tiger cage is designed to strip individuals of their basic human rights, restrict their mobility, and subject them to constant surveillance and brutal treatment.
Typically, tiger cages are characterized by their harsh and punishing conditions, including inadequate space, unsanitary conditions, extreme temperatures, and lack of sufficient food and water. This confinement aims to break the spirit and will of the prisoners, often resulting in physical and mental deterioration.
The use of tiger cages as a method of imprisonment has long been recognized as a flagrant violation of human rights and condemned by international organizations. The term has been widely used in historical contexts such as the Vietnam War, where reports of the use of tiger cages by the South Vietnamese government drew international attention and condemnation.
In a broader sense, the term "tiger cage" has come to symbolize the cruel and degrading treatment of individuals under repressive regimes and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for freedom, justice, and human rights.
The word "tiger cage" does not have a distinct etymology as it is a compound word consisting of two separate terms: "tiger" and "cage".
The term "tiger" originates from the Latin word "tigris", which is derived from the Greek word "tigris", meaning "tiger". It is believed that the word "tigris" itself might be derived from an Eastern Iranian language, as it has similarities with the word "tigra" in Old Persian.
The word "cage" originates from the Old French word "cage", which means "a cage, prison". It entered the English language in the 13th century.
When combined, "tiger cage" refers to a specific type of cage used to confine tigers or other large animals.
