garro

Garro is a word with multiple meanings, primarily referring to a device used for execution by strangulation or a type of wooden stake. In the context of historical executions, the garrote was a method of capital punishment used in Spain and its colonies for centuries. It involved a metal collar or rope that was tightened around the victim's neck, typically by a screw mechanism, causing strangulation. The garrote was known for its supposed clemency compared to other methods of execution, although this is debated. Its use was largely abolished in the late 20th century, with Spain being one of the last European countries to retain it for civil offenses.

Beyond its executionary use, "garro" can also refer to a wooden stake or pole. This meaning is less common in English but appears in other languages. For example, in Spanish, a "garrote vil" specifically denotes the instrument of execution, while "garrote" in a more general sense can mean a stick or club. The dual nature of the word reflects its historical applications.