Guillotina (en. Guillotine)
/ɡiʝoˈtina/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishSpanish
noun
A machine used to cut various materials precisely, such as paper or cardboard.
The guillotine facilitates work in the printing press.
La guillotina facilita el trabajo en la imprenta.
A historical device used to execute those condemned to death, especially during the French Revolution.
The guillotine became a symbol of radical justice in the past.
La guillotina se convirtió en símbolo de la justicia radical en el pasado.
A paper cutter that allows for straight and clean cuts.
I need to use the guillotine to cut these sheets of paper evenly.
Necesito usar la guillotina para cortar estas hojas de papel de manera uniforme.
Etymology
It derives from the name of the French physician Joseph-Ignace Guillotin, who proposed its use in 1789 for executions.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to go through the guillotine
To be the subject of a trial or severe criticism.
pasar por la guillotina
to be on the guillotine
To be in a state of imminent danger or risk.
estar en la guillotina
to fall under the guillotine
To be executed or suffer a drastic action.
caer bajo la guillotina
Related Words
execution
Action of carrying out a death penalty.
ejecución
cut
Action of dividing or separating something.
corte
printing press
Place where text or images are printed.
imprenta
Slang Meanings
Using a guillotine in the context of getting rid of something quickly and effectively.
I’m going to give the guillotine to this project that isn’t progressing.
Voy a darle la guillotina a este proyecto que no avanza.
Reference to a situation that requires quick and drastic decisions.
The offensive was like a guillotine in the game, cutting off the rival's opportunities.
La ofensiva fue como una guillotina en el juego, cortando las oportunidades del rival.