A method of taking away life practised among the Egyptians (Genesis 40:17-19). There are instances of this mode of punishment also among the Hebrews (2 Samuel 4:8; 20:21, 22; 2 Kings 10:6-8). It is also mentioned in the New Testament (Matthew 14:8-12; Acts 12:2).

Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

(v. t.) To sever the head from; to take off the head of.