1. pierced or fixed on a sharp point or stake
Usage: heraldry: divided into two equal parts by a vertical line

1. past tense of empale; to pierce or transfix with a sharp stake or pointed object
Usage: often used in historical or violent contexts

Examples

• The warrior was empaled on the enemy's lance during the battle.
• The butterfly specimen was empaled on a pin for the collection.
• In heraldry, the shield was empaled to show the union of two families.
• The historical account described how the prisoners were empaled as punishment.
• The fruit was empaled on a wooden skewer for grilling.