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Glite Dictionary
⚓ To punish harshly ⚓ A harsh punishment
keelhaul

keelhaul

1 9.9
A very severe punishment or public scolding
  • noun
  • /ˈkiːlˌhɔːl/
  • NSFW
translation icon : castigo
  • In naval history, a keelhaul was often seen as the ultimate punishment for mutiny.

Examples

  • Rumors spread that the crew's failure in battle would lead to a keelhaul for those responsible.

  • General Eisenhower also participated in the forced repatriation of up to 5 million Russian POWs in what was known as Operation Keelhaul.

    Blog text (29)

  • The sailor received a keelhaul from the captain after disobeying orders during the storm.

Synonyms

keelhauling
vskeelhaul
  • NSFW
1 9.9

A punishment in which a person is dragged under the bottom of a ship

refers broadly to any severe punishment or harsh reprimand

Antonyms

to reward
328 1.3

To give something to someone to thank them for doing something good

commendation
  • Formal
39 6.8

An official award or letter praising someone for good work

How Severe

keelhaul
  • NSFW
1 9.9
punishment
720 1.3
reprimand
  • Formal
24 6.1
scolding
7 3.3
warning
1.0

Surface Forms

keelhaul singular
keelhauls plural

Etymology

Keelhaul The noun keelhaul comes from the same cruel ship punishment, where a sailor was hauled under the ship's keel (the bottom) and dragged along the underside. So a 'keelhaul' now means a severe punishment or harsh scolding, like that terrifying act.