INTERROGATION
get the third degree
to be questioned in great detail for a long period. (Slang.)Why is it I get the third degree from you every time I come home late?Poor Sally spent all night at the police station getting the third degree.
give someone the third degree
to question someone in great detail for a long period. (Slang.)The police gave Sally the third degree.Stop giving me the third degree. I told you what I know.
third degree
n. a session of questioning, usually by the police.Max got the third degree, but—being the thoroughbred he is—he was a clam.They gave Bruno the third degree, but he refused to say anything.