cat-o'-nine-tails

noun2

1. •
   A scourge (multi-tail whip) having nine, often knotted, whipcords, formerly used for flogging as naval punishment.

   • But I do tell you one thing, if you should give such Language at Sea, you'd have a Cat o' Nine-tails laid cross your Shoulders. — 1695
2. •
   A similarly constructed leather nine-tail whip, as used in British penal colonies and certain armies.