verb to punish by dragging under the keel of a ship
Keelhauling was a form of punishment inflicted upon sailors in which the individual was tied to a rope and dragged underneath the ship's hull, often resulting in severe injury or death.
In pirate lore, keelhauling was a brutal punishment used to discipline crew members or prisoners, showcasing the harsh and unforgiving nature of life at sea.
Keelhauling was a historical naval practice that was eventually abolished due to its inhumane and barbaric nature, serving as a reminder of the harsh conditions faced by sailors in the past.
In literature, 'keelhaul' may be used as a metaphor to describe a character facing severe punishment or being subjected to a harsh ordeal.
In psychology, 'keelhaul' could be used in a figurative sense to describe someone experiencing intense emotional distress or undergoing a difficult therapy process.
For maritime historians, 'keelhaul' would refer to the historical practice of punishing sailors by dragging them under the ship's keel, providing insights into naval discipline and punishment methods.