Pronunciation: [ðə θˈɜːd dɪɡɹˈiː] (IPA) 
"The third degree" is a common phrase used to describe intense questioning or interrogation. The spelling of this phrase may seem confusing as the word "degree" is spelled with an "ee" rather than an "ea" as some may expect. This is because the word derives from the Latin word "gradus" which gives the English word "grade". The correct IPA transcription of this phrase would be /ðə ˈθɜrd dəˈɡriː/.
The phrase "the third degree" refers to an intensive and often harsh interrogation or questioning meant to extract information from someone, typically in a criminal investigation or police setting. It conveys the idea of exerting extreme pressure or subjecting an individual to intense scrutiny.
Derived from the American legal system, this term originated from the three degrees of Freemasonry, where the third degree represented the highest level of initiation. The third degree involves applying intense psychological pressure, intimidation, and coercion with the intention of eliciting a confession or revealing hidden details.
In modern usage, "the third degree" is frequently associated with tactics such as relentless questioning, use of psychological tricks, sleep deprivation, physical discomfort, or even mild physical abuse. The goal is to push a person to their breaking point in order to obtain a desired response or admission. However, such practices are widely considered unethical, coercive, and inhumane in many legal jurisdictions.
The expression has also evolved to be used figuratively, outside the realm of police interrogations. It can describe any situation where someone is subjected to intense scrutiny or a thorough grilling aimed at extracting information. For example, it may be used in a colloquial context, such as "I was given the third degree by my boss about why the project went wrong."
Overall, "the third degree" encompasses intense interrogative techniques utilized to extract information, particularly in legal or investigative contexts, though it has expanded to include any demanding or thorough questioning.
