brank 
(brăngk) or branks (brăngks)
(brăngk) or branks (brăngks)n.
A device consisting of a metal frame for the head and a bit to restrain the tongue, formerly used to punish scolds.
[Possibly from Dutch branken, legs (of a compass, scissors, etc.), pl. of branke, branch, from Late Latin branca, paw; see BRANCH.]