branding iron

noun

a long-handled metal rod with a stamp at one end, used for branding livestock, especially cattle, with a registered or recognized symbol or character to indicate ownership.

Origin of branding iron

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

A governor who vetoed Republican bills byburning the word “VETO” onto them using a branding iron.
Meet Brian Schweitzer, the ex-Montana Governor Who Wants to Replace Max Baucus in the Senate | David Frum | April 23, 2013 | THE DAILY BEAST
A felony conviction burns through the skin deeper than any white-hot branding iron.
How I Fell in Love in Prison | John Forté | March 13, 2009 | THE DAILY BEAST
The overwhelming relief in her face, burned into Wade's soul like a branding-iron.
Hidden Gold | Wilder Anthony
The hot branding-iron was then clapped against their shoulder, and was received by a roar of rage and pain.
Out on the Pampas | G. A. Henty
He stared at the letter, and certain sentences in it seemed to sear him, even as the branding-iron used on a felon might.
The History of Sir Richard Calmady | Lucas Malet

As the man fell to the ground, just outside the door, the branding-iron slipped from his hand.
Fred Fearnot's New Ranch | Hal Standish
As we started in with him, she struck me over the head with a branding iron, and I had to drop Charlie at her feet.
History of 'Billy the Kid' | Chas. A. Siringo

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