Brandiron

/ˈbrændaɪərn/ noun

Definition

A metal tool with a handle and a shaped end, heated and pressed onto livestock or other materials to leave a permanent mark of ownership.

Etymology

Compound of 'brand' (from Old Norse 'brandr') + 'iron.' The two-part name literally describes the tool's function: applying a brand using iron.

Kelly Says

The brandiron might be the most straightforward name for any tool in English—it's literally an iron for branding, and ranchers have been using the exact same design for over a thousand years.

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