garrote

noun

1. 1. a method of execution, as formerly in Spain, with an iron collar tightened about the neck by a screw
   2. the iron collar so used
2. 1. a cord, thong, or length of wire for strangling a robbery victim, enemy sentry, etc. in a surprise attack
   2. a disabling by strangling in this way; strangulation

Etymology: Sp, orig., a stick used to wind a cord, prob. < OFr garrot, crossbow bolt, for earlier guaroc < garokier, to garrote < Frank *wrokkan, to twist < IE *werĝh-, to twist, choke < base *wer-, to turn > worm, wrench

transitive verb -·rot′ed or -·rot′·ted, -·rot′·ing or -·rot′·ting

1. to execute or attack with a garrote or by strangling
2. to disable by strangling, as in an attack for robbery