# abacination

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abacination
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a very old and cruel punishment where someone is made blind by having a red-hot metal plate held close to their eyes. It was used in ancient times to punish enemies or criminals.

For teachers: the act of blinding someone by exposing the eyes to a red-hot metal plate or vessel. A historical term for a specific form of corporal punishment or torture.

## Examples

- The king ordered the abacination of the rebel leader.
- Historical records from the Byzantine Empire describe abacination as a common method for removing political rivals from power without execution.
- The chronicler detailed the grim process of abacination, noting that the victim was forced to stare into a glowing copper basin until their sight was permanently extinguished.

## Usage notes

- Primarily used in historical or legal contexts regarding ancient torture methods.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.