A method of torture and execution described in Old Icelandic literature, in which the ribs are cut away from the spine and spread into the shape of wings.
Origin
Mid 19th century. After Old Icelandic blóð-ǫrn.
Definition of blood-eagle in US English:
blood-eagle
noun
A method of torture and execution described in Old Icelandic literature, in which the ribs are cut away from the spine and spread into the shape of wings.