abacination

/əˌbæsɪˈneɪʃən/

Definitions

1. noun

The act of cutting off the hands of a person as a form of punishment, especially as a means of preventing them from committing a specific crime such as theft.

“In the Middle Ages, the practice of abacination was used in various parts of the world as a means of punishment and deterrence.”

Synonyms

  • amputation
  • mutilation

Antonyms

  • reparative action
  • restorative justice