ferule

Definition

A ruler-shaped instrument, generally used to slap naughty children on the hand.

Etymology

From Middle French ferule (modern French férule), from Latin ferula (“giant fennel”). Doublet of ferula.

Example Sentences

• "In his hand he swayed a ferule, that sceptre of despotic power; the birch of justice reposed on three nails behind the throne, a constant terror to evil doers, […]."
• "He [a midshipman] lords it over those below him, while lorded over himself by his superiors. It is as if with one hand a school-boy snapped his fingers at a dog, and at the same time received upon the other the discipline of the usher's ferule."
• "The master, who stood at the end of the room, with a huge ferule under his arm, bent full upon me a look of stern appeal; […]"