Excecate

/ˈɛksɪkeɪt/ verb

Definition

To put out the eyes of; to blind or deprive of sight by removing or destroying the eyes.

Etymology

From Latin 'excaecate' (to blind), from 'ex-' (out) + 'caecus' (blind). This brutal word entered English in medieval texts describing punishments or injuries.

Kelly Says

This word survives in medical and historical texts as one of English's most graphic terms for medieval punishments. It shows how older languages had precise words for injuries we hope never to see today.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.