branks
branks (brangks). Hist. An instrument used to punish scolds, consisting of an iron framework that surrounded the head and entered the mouth to keep the offender’s tongue depressed. — Also termed scolding bridle. See SCOLD. Cf. CASTIGATORY.
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castigatory
castigatory (kas-ti-g[schwa]-tor-ee). Hist. A device for punishing scolds by repeatedly plunging them un-derwater. • This device is mentioned by the ancient Saxons (scealfing stole) and in Domesday Book (cathedra stercoralis). It was also used to punish bakers and brewers by ducking them into “stinking water” (stercore), possibly into a midden. — Also termed ducking stool;
scold
scold, n. Hist. A person who regularly breaks the peace by scolding people, increasing discord, and generally being a public nuisance to the neighborhood. • This behavior was formerly punishable in various ways, including having an iron bridle fitted to the person’s mouth. — Also termed common scold; objurgatrix. See BRANKS. [Cases: Criminal Law 45.25.]