Garrote

A garrote (also spelled garrotte) is a weapon, typically a length of wire, cord, rope, scarf, or similar material, used to strangle a person. It can be used to silently assassinate someone.

The term also refers to a method of execution in which a person is strangled to death by tightening a loop around their neck. The garrote execution device typically includes a chair to restrain the condemned, with a tightening mechanism attached to the loop around the neck. This mechanism can be a crank, lever, or ratchet designed to slowly strangle the victim.

Historically, the garrote has been associated with Spain, where it was a legal method of capital punishment until 1978. Its use has also been documented in other countries and by various criminal organizations. While often associated with violence and oppression, it is important to note that not all uses of cord or rope to constrict the neck constitute a garrote, which implies a deliberate weapon or method of execution. The use as a weapon differentiates it from accidental strangulation or medical procedures.