A lashing can refer to different things depending on the context. Here are some possible meanings:

• Tongue-lashing: A severe scolding.
• Punishment: Being hit with a whip.
• Binding, wrapping, or fastening: A lashing can be a rope, cable, or other material used to tie one thing to another.
• Knots and lashings: A lashing is a way to fasten together things with rope, and the square lashing is ideal for fastening together poles that are perpendicular. With a tight square lashing, you can build shelters, furnishings, and many other camp constructions.
• Abundance: Lashings can also mean a great plenty or abundance.

In summary, a lashing can refer to a scolding, punishment, a way to fasten things together, or an abundance.