Gallows

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Gallows

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun

Pronunciation

GAL-ohz  /ˈɡaləʊz/

Definition

A structure, typically consisting of two uprights and a crossbeam, used for execution by hanging; (gallows humour) a dark, ironic humour about serious or death-related subjects.

Plain meaning

The gallows is the wooden frame from which condemned criminals were hanged. Gallows humour is dark, ironic joking about death or grim subjects.

Register

Historical and legal in its primary sense. The gallows humour expression is neutral and widely used in everyday and professional speech.