tyrant of Sparta, reigned about 204 B.C.; and is reported to have exceeded all other tyrants so far, that, upon comparison, he left the epithets of gracious and merciful to Dionysius and Phalaris. He is said to have contrived an instrument of torture in the form of a statue of a beautiful woman, whose rich dress concealed a number of iron spikes in her bosom and arms. When any one therefore opposed his demands, he would say, "If I have not talents enough to prevail with you, perhaps my woman Apega may persuade you." The statue then appeared; which Nabis taking by the hand, led up to the person, who, being embraced by it, was thus tortured into compliance. He reigned 14 years, and was slain in battle.