lash

/læʃ/
noun
  1. An eyelash; one of the hairs growing on the edge of the eyelid.
    • She blinked, and a tiny lash fell onto her cheek.
    • Mascara is used to make your lashes look thicker and longer.
    • He has long, dark lashes that frame his eyes beautifully.
  2. A sharp blow or stroke with a whip or similar flexible object.
    • The driver gave the horse a lash to make it go faster.
    • A single lash of the whip left a red mark on his arm.
    • In the old story, the prisoner received ten lashes as punishment.
  3. A sudden, forceful movement of something flexible, like a rope or tail.
    • The cat's tail gave an angry lash from side to side.
    • The tiger's tail moved in a quick lash as it prepared to pounce.
    • With a lash of the rope, the sailor secured the boat to the dock.
Synonyms
verb
  1. To hit or strike with a whip or similar object.
    • In the storm, the wind lashed the trees, breaking several branches.
    • The cruel master would lash the slaves for any small mistake.
    • He threatened to lash the dog if it didn't stop barking.
  2. To move or swing violently or quickly.
    • The tiger lashed its tail in frustration.
    • She lashed her arm out to grab the falling vase.
    • The waves lashed against the side of the ship during the storm.
  3. To tie or fasten something securely with rope or cord.
    • The campers lashed the tent poles together to make a sturdy frame.
    • He lashed the luggage to the roof rack with strong straps.
    • The sailors lashed the cargo to the deck to keep it from shifting.
  4. To criticize or attack someone harshly with words.
    • The critic lashed the movie for its poor acting and weak plot.
    • She lashed her brother with angry words after he broke her phone.
    • The politician lashed his opponent in a heated debate.