flog
UK[flɒɡ]US[flɑːɡ]
v
to beat someone severely with a whip or stick as a punishment
v
(informal) to sell something, especially quickly or cheaply
Etymology
the word 'flog' is a vivid example of onomatopoeia, its harsh, abrupt sound mimicking the action it describes. it first appeared in english slang in the late 17th century, likely as a shortened alteration of the latin-derived word 'flagellate'. the core concept of striking or beating connects it to a family of words implying forceful contact, such as 'flap' and 'flail'. over time, its meaning expanded metaphorically, particularly in british informal usage, to mean selling something aggressively or quickly, evoking the sense of driving a deal forward.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it is likely of imitative origin, possibly related to latin flagellare meaning "to whip".
Examples
in the past, sailors could be flogged for disobedience.
they're trying to flog their old car before moving abroad.
the newspaper was accused of flogging the same story for weeks.