01 n. sing. A frame from which is suspended the rope with which criminals are executed by hanging, usually consisting of two upright posts and a crossb…
pl.
Gallowses, Gallows ((#))
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1.
A frame from which is suspended the rope with which criminals are executed by hanging, usually consisting of two upright posts and a crossbeam on the top; also, a like frame for suspending anything.“So they hanged Haman on the gallows.” — Esther vii. 10.“If I hang, I'll make a fat pair of gallows.” — Shak.“O, there were desolation of gaolers and gallowses!” — Shak.
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2.
A wretch who deserves the gallows.[R.]
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3.
The rest for the tympan when raised.(Print.)
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4.
A pair of suspenders or braces.[Colloq.]“At length him nailéd on a gallow tree.” — Spenser.
Phrases & compounds
Gallows bird —
a person who deserves the gallows.
Gallows bitts —
one of two or more frames amidships on deck for supporting spare spars; -- called also gallows, gallows top, gallows frame, etc.
Gallows frame —
The frame supporting the beam of an engine.
Gallows tree —
the gallows.