1. Plural of ferula; a flat wooden rod or cane used historically for punishment, especially in schools.
Usage: archaic; historical
2. In botany and anatomy, plural of ferula; a splint or support device used to immobilize a limb or joint.
Usage: medical; technical

Examples

• The schoolmaster kept ferulae in his desk to discipline unruly students.
• In medieval schools, ferulae were common instruments of corporal punishment.
• The doctor applied ferulae to stabilize the patient's fractured wrist.
• Ferulae were used in ancient times to enforce discipline in educational settings.
• Modern medicine has largely replaced rigid ferulae with more flexible bracing systems.