GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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1.       
   auto-da-fe, ‖Auto-da-fé (), n.; pl. Autos-da-fé (). [Pg., act of the faith; auto act, fr. L. actus + da of the + fé faith, fr. L. fides.]
   1. A judgment of the Inquisition in Spain and Portugal condemning or acquitting persons accused of religious offenses.
   
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   2. An execution of such sentence, by the civil power, esp. the burning of a heretic.  It was usually held on Sunday, and was made a great public solemnity by impressive forms and ceremonies.
   
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   3. Hence: [Fig.] The public denunciation or punishment of a person who has offended the prevailing authorities.
   
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   4. A session of the court of Inquisition.
   
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