Pillory

To pillory means to publicly criticize or ridicule someone. Historically, a pillory was a wooden frame with holes for securing the head and hands, used for public humiliation and punishment. The modern usage focuses on verbal or written attacks designed to shame an individual, often in the media or public sphere. This act aims to expose perceived wrongdoing or unpopular opinions, causing embarrassment and social isolation. The goal is typically to deter similar behavior or to enforce societal norms through public censure. While physical pillories are obsolete, the practice of public shaming persists as a potent form of social control.

Pillory meaning with examples

• The journalist's exposé pilloried the corporation for its environmental violations, leading to boycotts and calls for legal action. The company's executives faced harsh scrutiny, with their reputations significantly damaged by the public outcry. The online community widely condemned their actions, and shareholders grew impatient with the company's handling of the situation, causing its stock price to plummet and an erosion of trust in the corporate brand.
• The comedian's stand-up routine pilloried the politician's controversial policies, sparking heated debates online and in news outlets. The jokes were sharp and satirical, eliciting both laughter and outrage. Supporters of the politician rallied to defend him, while his detractors cheered the comedian's bold stance. The incident highlighted the role of satire in public discourse, stirring up a discussion and a divide among the citizenry of differing political ideals.
• Following the scandal, the newspaper's editorial pilloried the celebrity for their unethical behavior, detailing their transgressions in unflinching detail. The harsh words, paired with photographic evidence, intensified the public's disdain. Their image suffered irreparably, and the press coverage brought their past actions back into the light. Several endorsements and sponsorship deals were canceled as a result, marking a substantial financial and reputational decline.
• Social media users, in a coordinated campaign, pilloried the influencer for their insensitive remarks on social media, using the comment section to broadcast their displeasure. The backlash included memes, hashtags, and calls for the influencer to issue an apology, leading to a massive loss of followers and followers’ engagement. This rapid and intense scrutiny demonstrated the power of social media to shape public perception and bring consequences for ill-considered behavior.