lynch

Pronunciation: /lɪnt͡ʃ/

The English word “lynch” has 2 meanings listed here.

verb

To execute (somebody) without a proper legal trial or procedure, especially by hanging and backed by a mob.
To castigate severely.

Etymology

First attested 1835, from Lynch law, which appeared in 1811. There is a popular claim that it was named after William Lynch, but equally strong arguments would have it named after Charles Lynch. For the surname, see Lynch. Ultimately a possible doublet of linch.

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More English words

Lyn
lyncean
Lynceus
Lynch
lynch law
lynch mob
Lynch syndrome
lynchable

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Definitions are from Wiktionary, extracted by Kaikki.org, and are available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence.