Tar and feather Meaning in English
expression
Definition
An old form of public punishment where someone is covered with hot tar and then feathers. Now, it's also used figuratively to mean harshly punishing or humiliating someone in public.
Usage & Nuances
Originally literal (18th–19th century punishment); now usually figurative. Modern use is informal or journalistic to describe group shaming, harsh criticism, or humiliating punishment. Often appears as 'be tarred and feathered' or 'threaten to tar and feather.' Avoid using literally in contemporary contexts.
Example Sentences
In history, people would tar and feather criminals as punishment.
basic
Now people use 'tar and feather' to mean someone is publicly embarrassed.
basic
The angry crowd wanted to tar and feather the politician.
basic
If you forget your friend's birthday again, they'll probably want to tar and feather you.
natural
After the embarrassing mistake, some people on social media wanted to tar and feather the singer.
natural
Don't be so harsh—no one deserves to be tarred and feathered for a simple mistake.
natural