Dictionary

Explore meaning, context, and usage with an online dictionary experience optimized for multilingual workflows.

Clear

Try these words

Meaning of guillotine

Source language: EnglishDictionary language: English

guillotine

Pronunciation:/ˈɡiː.ə.tiːn/

noun

Definitions

  1. A machine used for the application of capital punishment by decapitation, consisting of a tall upright frame from which is suspended a heavy diagonal-edged blade.

  2. A device used for cutting stacks of paper to straight edges, usually by means of a hinged blade attached to a flat platform.

  3. A cloture; a motion that debate be ended and a vote taken.

  4. A surgical instrument for cutting the tonsils.

verb

Definitions

  1. To execute, cut or cut short (a person, a stack of paper or a debate) by use of a guillotine.

  2. To end discussion on a parliamentary bill by invoking cloture.