branks

[ brangks ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

, (used with a plural verb)

Sometimes brank. a device consisting of a headpiece with a flat, iron bit to restrain the tongue, formerly used to punish scolds.

branks

/ bræŋks /

Origin of branks¹

1585–95; perhaps to be identified with Middle English bernak “bridle, snaffle”; barnacle ²

Origin of branks¹

C16: of unknown origin

If that did not stop the rancour of their tongues he tried the effect of an instrument called the "branks."

I'll be in Dumfries the morn gif the beast be to the fore, and the branks bide hale.

An uncomfortable bridle which used to be employed to silence scolds was called the branks.

The branks was a species of iron mask, with a gag so contrived as to enter the mouth and forcibly hold down the unruly member.

The brutality of the stronger and governing to the weaker and subject sex was not limited to the ducking-stool and branks.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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