garrote

Gar*rote", n. Etym: [Sp. garrote, from garra claw, talon, of Celtic origin; cf. Armor. & W. gar leg, ham, shank. Cf. Garrot stick, Garter.] Defn: A Spanish mode of execution by strangulation, with an iron collar affixed to a post and tightened by a screw until life become extinct; also, the instrument by means of which the punishment is inflicted. Gar*rote", v. t. [imp. & p. p. Garroted; p. pr. & vb. n. Garroting.] Defn: To strangle with the garrote; hence, to seize by the throat, from behind, with a view to strangle and rob.

---