1. acts of whipping or beating, especially as punishment or religious discipline
Usage: formal; often religious or historical contexts

Examples

• The medieval monks practiced flagellations as a form of penance.
• Historical records describe the flagellations used as punishment in ancient times.
• The religious sect was known for its extreme flagellations during ceremonies.
• Public flagellations were common forms of punishment in colonial America.
• The documentary examined the role of flagellations in various religious traditions.