Tar and feather definitions
| Word backwards | rat dna rehtaef |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The word "tar" is a noun, while "feather" can be a noun or a verb. In the context of "tar and feather," "tar" is a noun and "feather" is a verb. |
| Syllabic division | tar and feather (tar / and / fea / ther) |
| Plural | The plural of the word "tar and feather" is "tarring and feathering." |
| Total letters | 13 |
| Vogais (2) | a,e |
| Consonants (6) | t,r,n,d,f,h |
The History of Tar and Feather
Tar and feathering is a form of public humiliation and punishment in which a person is covered in hot tar and then coated in feathers. This practice dates back centuries and has been used in various parts of the world as a means of punishing individuals deemed to have committed a crime or act that goes against societal norms.
How Tar and Feathering Works
The process of tar and feathering typically begins with heating tar, a thick black liquid derived from wood or coal, to a high temperature until it becomes viscous. The tar is then applied to the victim's body, causing intense pain and making it difficult to remove. Feathers are then thrown or pressed onto the tar, sticking to the victim's skin and creating a grotesque and humiliating appearance.
Historical Significance
Tar and feathering has been used as a form of public punishment throughout history, notably during the American Revolutionary War as a method of shaming and ostracizing individuals who were loyal to the British crown. It was also used during the Irish War of Independence and in various other conflicts as a means of public humiliation and intimidation.
Legal Implications
While tar and feathering was once a common practice, it is now widely considered to be a form of assault and is illegal in most countries. The act can result in severe burns, infections, and long-term physical and psychological trauma for the victim. As such, it is viewed as a barbaric and inhumane practice that has no place in modern society.
Contemporary References
Despite its historical significance, tar and feathering is occasionally referenced in contemporary culture as a symbol of public shaming and humiliation. It is often used metaphorically to describe situations in which individuals are subjected to harsh judgment or ostracism by society.
Tar and feather Examples
- The mob decided to tar and feather the corrupt politician as a form of punishment.
- In colonial America, tarring and feathering was a common practice for punishing traitors.
- The angry villagers threatened to tar and feather the suspected thief if he didn't confess.
- The vigilantes took justice into their own hands and decided to tar and feather the criminal.
- The sheriff warned the troublemaker that he would be tarred and feathered if he continued causing trouble.
- The revolutionary group planned to tar and feather the informant who betrayed their cause.
- The rebel soldiers used tar and feathers as a way to shame and humiliate their captured enemies.
- The act of tar and feathering was seen as a brutal and degrading punishment in the 18th century.
- Historically, tar and feathering was a method of public humiliation and punishment for various offenses.
- The townspeople gathered to tar and feather the outsider who had been causing trouble in their community.