ˈkrüsəˌfī transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-es )
Etymology: Middle English crucifien, from Old French crucifier, from Late Latin crucifigere — more at crucifix
1. : to put to death by nailing or binding the hands and feet to a cross
2. : to destroy the power or ruling influence of : subdue completely : mortify
they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh — Gal 5:24(Authorized Version)
3.
a. : to treat cruelly (as in severe punishment) : torment , torture
b. : to harry, persecute, or pillory especially for some cause or principle : denigrate
crucify a political leader