Waterboarding is a controversial interrogation technique that involves pouring water over a cloth covering the face and breathing passages of an immobilized individual, causing the sensation of drowning. It is often used as an extreme form of torture to extract information or confessions from a person.

Pronunciation: [waw-ter-bohr-ding]

Usage: Waterboarding is primarily used as an interrogation method by military and intelligence agencies, although it has been banned by many countries as a form of torture. It is also sometimes used in extreme sports as a form of simulated drowning.

Example Sentences:

1. The prisoner was subjected to waterboarding for hours in order to reveal classified information.

2. The use of waterboarding has sparked intense debates about the ethics and effectiveness of torture.

3. Many human rights organizations have condemned the use of waterboarding as a violation of basic human rights.

4. The soldier was trained in waterboarding techniques as part of his military interrogation training.

5. The victim's testimony was thrown out in court due to evidence that it was obtained through waterboarding.

Synonyms and Usage:

1. Drowning simulation - This term is often used to describe the sensation caused by waterboarding.

2. Enhanced interrogation - This term is often used by government agencies to justify the use of techniques like waterboarding.

3. Simulated drowning - This term refers to the act itself, where a person experiences the sensation of drowning without actually being submerged in water.

4. Torture - Waterboarding is considered by many to be a form of torture, although there are disagreements about its classification.

5. Immobilization - In order for waterboarding to be effective, the individual must be restrained or immobilized in some way.

Editor's Summary:

Waterboarding remains a highly controversial ic, with proponents arguing that it can provide valuable information while opponents argue that it is unethical and ineffective as an interrogation technique. Its use continues to be debated and regulated by various governments and international organizations.