gallows Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an instrument of execution consisting of a wooden frame from which a condemned person is executed by hanging

WordNet

Gal"lows noun singular
Etymology
OE. galwes, pl., AS. galga, gealga, gallows, cross; akin to D. galg gallows, OS. & OHG. galgo, G. galgen, Icel. galgi, Sw. & Dan. galge, Goth. galga a cross. Etymologically and historically considered, gallows is a noun in the plural number, but it is used as a singular, and hence is preceded by a; as, a gallows.
Wordforms
plural Gallowses ∨ Gallows
Definitions
  1. A frame from which is suspended the rope with which criminals are executed by hanging, usually consisting of two upright posts and a crossbeam on the top; also, a like frame for suspending anything.
    So they hanged Haman on the gallows. Esther vii. 10.
    If I hang, I'll make a fat pair of gallows. Shak.
    O, there were desolation of gaolers and gallowses Shak.
  2. A wretch who deserves the gallows. R. Shak.
  3. (Print.) The rest for the tympan when raised.
  4. pl. A pair of suspenders or braces. Colloq.
    At length him nailéd on a gallow tree. Spenser.

Webster 1913