Flagellation (noun)

The act of beating someone or oneself with a whip or stick as a form of punishment or self-discipline.

Origin:

Late middle english: from latin flagellatio(n-), from flagellare 'whip' (see flog).

Examples:

1. Flagellation was a common form of punishment in ancient times.
2. The monk subjected himself to flagellation as a form of penance.
3. The flagellation left deep welts on the prisoner's back.
4. Flagellation was used as a means of punishment in many cultures.
5. The flagellation was performed in public as a deterrent to others.