English▸ verb [with object] historical punish (someone) by dragging them through the water under the keel of a ship, either across the width or from bow to stern:
if I catch any more on board I'll keelhaul them.
▪ humorous punish or rebuke severely:
anyone who laid a finger on her would be keelhauled.
– ORIGIN mid 17th century : from Dutch kielhalen.