Pronunciation: [ɛmpˈe͡ɪl] (IPA) 
Empale is a jarring term that may not be familiar to many. The word is pronounced / ɛmˈpeɪl / and is spelled with an "e" instead of an "i" as it might be expected. The term means "to impale on a stake," and is related to the word "impale." The spelling difference originates from the fact that the word comes from the French "empaler," which uses an "e" instead of an "i" to represent the long "a" sound.
Empale is a verb that refers to the act of impaling or piercing a person or object with a sharp pointed instrument, typically a stake or pole, particularly through the abdomen. This term often carries a gruesome and violent connotation. The word is derived from the French word "empaler," which means "to impale," and its origins can be traced back to the Latin word "palus," meaning "stake" or "pole."
Historically, the act of emapling has been employed as a method of execution, torture, or punishment in various cultures and time periods. It has been used to make a public example of criminals, dissenters, or enemies, particularly in medieval times. The victim was commonly forced onto a vertically positioned stake, which was then driven through the body, causing immense pain, agony, and usually resulting in death.
In a broader sense, the term "empale" can also be used figuratively to describe a situation where someone is metaphorically impaled or pinned down, unable to escape or extricate themselves from a difficult or challenging circumstance. It can metaphorically imply being trapped, stuck, or firmly held in an unfavorable or uncomfortable position.
Due to its gruesome nature and violent implications, the term "empale" is rarely used in everyday language and is mostly confined to historical contexts, literary works, or discussions surrounding execution methods and violence.
To put to death by driving a sharpened stake or pole through the body; to inclose or surround with poles.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "empale" has its origins in Old French. It derives from the verb "empieler", meaning "to enclose with stakes", which is a combination of the prefix "en-" (meaning "in" or "into") and the noun "paelle" or "pal" (meaning "stake"). "Empale" first appeared in English during the 16th century, adopting the sense of impaling someone on a stake as a form of execution. Over time, the meaning of "empale" has also evolved to include piercing or running through something with a stake or sharp object in a metaphorical sense.
