auto-da-fe

‖ n.; pl. Autos-da-fé [ Pg., act of the faith; auto act, fr. L. actus + da of the + fé faith, fr. L. fides. ] 1. A judgment of the Inquisition in Spain and Portugal condemning or acquitting persons accused of religious offenses. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. An execution of such sentence, by the civil power, esp. the burning of a heretic. It was usually held on Sunday, and was made a great public solemnity by impressive forms and ceremonies. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Hence: [ Fig. ] The public denunciation or punishment of a person who has offended the prevailing authorities. [ PJC ]

4. A session of the court of Inquisition. [ 1913 Webster ]