灸きゅうを据すえる

expression, ichidan verb

rake over the coals; scold severely; give a good talking-to

Idiomatic expression for harshly scolding or reprimanding someone, often implying a thorough dressing-down. Figurative extension of the original moxibustion meaning.

• 遅ち刻こくしたら、部ぶ長ちょうに灸きゅうを据すえられた。

  When I was late, the department head gave me a good scolding.

• あの子こはいたずらが過すぎるから、一いち度ど灸きゅうを据すえてやらないと。

  That kid's pranks are too much; I need to give him a stern talking-to.

expression, ichidan verb

apply moxibustion; burn moxa on the skin

Original literal meaning: to place and burn moxa (dried mugwort) on acupuncture points. Now mostly used in traditional medical contexts.

• 昔むかしの医い者しゃは、患かん者じゃの背せ中なかに灸きゅうを据すえて治ち療りょうした。

  Old-time doctors treated patients by applying moxa to their backs.