spread eagle etymology

Etymology:

The word "spreadeagle" is derived from two Old English words:

• Spreade: meaning "wide" or "spread out"
• Egle: meaning "eagle"

Meaning:

"Spreadeagle" has two main meanings:

1. Spread out flat: To lie or stand with one's limbs extended widely, resembling an eagle in flight.

2. Crucified: To be tied or nailed to a cross in the manner of Jesus Christ. This usage is now rare.

Origin:

The term "spreadeagle" was first used in the mid-14th century to describe the way in which eagles spread their wings. It was later applied figuratively to people or objects lying or standing with their limbs extended widely.

By the 16th century, the term began to be used in a religious context to describe the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This usage is less common today.

Examples:

• "He lay spreadeagled on the beach, basking in the sun."
• "The eagle spread its wings and soared high into the sky."
• "According to tradition, Jesus was spreadeagled on the cross before his death."

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