Burn at the stake Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To be executed by being tied to a post and burned with fire, historically used as a punishment for certain crimes. It is also used figuratively to mean harsh public criticism.
Usage & Nuances
Formal and historical when literal; informal or dramatic when used figuratively. Commonly found in discussions of history or when exaggerating strong criticism ("I felt like I was being burned at the stake"). Not common in daily literal use.
Example Sentences
In the past, people were sometimes burned at the stake for their beliefs.
basic
Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431.
basic
The king ordered his enemy to be burned at the stake.
basic
Whenever I make a mistake at work, I feel like I'm being burned at the stake.
natural
He voiced an unpopular opinion and was practically burned at the stake on social media.
natural
Relax, nobody's going to burn you at the stake for forgetting to send one email.
natural