Cat-o’-nine-tails meaning

Noun: cat-o’-nine-tails

Pronunciation: (,ka-tu’nIn,teylz)

Cat-o’-nine-tails meaning: A whip made of usually nine knotted cords fastened to a handle.

Origin: From the resemblance of its scars to the scratches of a cat.

Sample sentences:

• I have purchased cat-o’-nine-tails made from real leather.
• Cat-o’-nine-tails is a multi-tailed whip that originated as an implement for severe physical punishment.