How to Memorize

pillory - criticise

Analysis

A ‘pillory’ was a wooden frame that was historically used to lock an offender in so that they could be exposed to public scorn and ridicule as punishment for a crime. The term has since been adapted so that in modern times it describes somebody being subjected to harsh public criticism for something they have said or done.

Example(s)

1. Even though the mistake I made was an honest one, I just know that the media are going to absolutely pillory me for it!

2. The journalist was justifiably pilloried on social media for her comments. They were not only ill-informed, but they were also inciteful.

3. Despite being pilloried at the time for her cost-cutting measures, the CEO was subsequently proven right when she returned the company to profitability.