Pronunciation: [kɹˈuːsɪfˌa͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The word "crucify" is spelled with four syllables, pronounced /ˈkruːsɪfaɪ/. The 'c' is followed by a 'r' and then a long 'u' sound represented by 'u'. The next syllable begins with the 's' sound, which is followed by a short 'i' and then 'f'. The final syllable begins with the 'ai' diphthong, represented by 'y'. The word is commonly used to refer to the act of putting someone to death by nailing them to a cross.
The verb "crucify" refers to the act of subjecting someone to excruciating physical and mental pain, suffering, or humiliation, reminiscent of the crucifixion method used by the ancient Romans. Primarily used in a metaphorical sense, this word carries a powerful connotation that denotes severe persecution or torment, often involving public humiliation or intense scrutiny on an individual or group.
Crucifixion entails enduring extreme agony, torment, or maltreatment, comparable to the torturous death penalty method employed by the Romans, where individuals were nailed or bound to a cross. Consequently, when somebody is figuratively crucified, they face severe condemnation or attack that aims to degrade, shame, destroy, or diminish their reputation, character, or dignity.
The action of crucifying someone involves subjecting an individual to relentless criticism, public shaming, or vilification, typically aimed at tarnishing their image or discrediting their ideas, opinions, or beliefs. This chastisement is often accompanied by a sustained effort to ostracize, isolate, or exclude the targeted person or group from society, resulting in profound emotional distress or personal ruin.
Furthermore, the verb can also imply an excessive or unwarranted punishment inflicted upon someone, particularly when they are made scapegoats or bear the brunt of severe consequences for the actions or mistakes of others. The concept of crucifixion embodies a form of intense suffering or persecution that leaves indelible scars on an individual's psyche, reputation, or social standing.
To put to death by nailing to a cross; to repress and subdue evil passions and desires from love to Christ.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "crucify" originates from the Latin word "cruce-" meaning "cross" and the verb "figere" meaning "to fix" or "to fasten". In Latin, crucifixion was known as "crucifixio", which is the source of the English term "crucify". The word "crucify" entered the English language through Old French, where it was spelled as "crucifier".
