Newgate

/ˈnjuːɡeɪt/ noun

Definition

A historic gate in the old wall of London, or the famous prison that was built near it; a symbol of law and punishment in England.

Etymology

From Old English 'niwe' (new) and 'geat' (gate); called 'new' because it was a newer gate when the medieval wall was built, later became famous as a prison.

Kelly Says

Newgate Prison was so notorious for cruelty that the phrase 'Newgate Calendar' described criminal confessions the way we now have 'true crime' stories—people were fascinated by famous prisoners and executions there!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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