Obs. Also 6–7 -our(e. [L., agent-n. from torquēre, tort-um to twist, torture.] A torturer, tormentor; an executioner.
1570. Foxe, A. & M. (ed. 2), 125/2. The boucherlye tortoure pluckte the skynne from the crowne of hys head.
1606. trans. Rollock’s Lect. on 1 Thess., 305. The conscience … as a tortor within thee to torment thee.
1610. Holland, Camden’s Brit., I. 410. The Tortor proudly did the feat, but cleere he went not quit; That holy Martyr lost his head, this cruell wretch his sight.
1619. Purchas, Microcosmus, xlii. 401. Tortures and Tortours, Deuills and Deuillish Plagues.
