Bocstaff

/ˈbɒkˌstæf/ noun

Definition

A dialectal or archaic term for a staff or pole used in rural contexts, possibly related to herding or controlling animals.

Etymology

Possibly from 'bock' (a male animal, or to strike) combined with 'staff' (a pole); or a corruption of 'buckstaff'; etymology is uncertain.

Kelly Says

Bocstaff is so rare that even specialists struggle to pin down its exact meaning—it might have meant a stick for controlling bucks (male deer).

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