Iron-maiden definition
A medieval instrument of torture consisting of an iron frame in the form of a person in which the victim was enclosed and impaled on interior spikes.
noun
(historical) An instrument of torture consisting of a large case having the general contour of a person, with sharp spikes inside.
noun
(idiomatic, archaic) A medieval torture device consisting of a chamber lined with spikes which encloses upon and impales the victim inside.
noun
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Alternative Forms
Alternative Form of iron-maiden -
iron lady
Other Word Forms
Noun
Singular:
iron-maiden
Plural:
iron-maidens