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potence

gallows

noun poh-TAHNS Rare
People & Society Law

Origin: Latin potentia (power)

Also means

bracket, support (technical)

Usage Note

Potence primarily means the gallows (the wooden frame for hanging). It also has a technical use meaning a wall bracket or support arm (in mechanics or furniture). Mourir sur la potence means 'to hang on the gallows'. The word is unrelated to English 'potency' despite the shared Latin root.

Examples

"Le condamné fut mené à la potence à l'aube."

Natural Translation

The condemned man was led to the gallows at dawn.

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