Punishment, metaphorically, can be described in three words: ROD, lumps, and LICKS. A ROD is a stick or staff used to punish someone, often symbolizing authority. Lumps can refer to a figurative punishment, such as a lump of coal, which is a metaphor for something undesirable. Finally, LICKS can refer to a figurative punishment, such as a tongue-lashing, which is a metaphor for verbal criticism. All three words are metaphors for punishment, and together they provide a vivid description of the concept.