branks

English - English

Definition of branks in English English dictionary

a punishment device, especially for scolding women, consisting of a cage to enclose the head, with a metal gag for the mouth

A sort of bridle with wooden side pieces

{i} instrument of punishment for women composed of an iron headpiece with a flat iron bit to restrain the tongue (used in the past)

It was an iron frame surrounding the head and having a triangular piece entering the mouth of the scold

A scolding bridle, an instrument formerly used for correcting scolding women

Etymology

() Origin uncertain; perhaps related to German Pranger, Dutch prang.