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.]- A judgment of the Inquisition in Spain and Portugal condemning or acquitting persons accused of religious offenses.
1913 Webster
- 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.
1913 Webster
- Hence: [Fig.] The public denunciation or punishment of a person who has offended the prevailing authorities.
PJC
- A session of the court of Inquisition.
1913 Webster