FERRULE  , a small

metal cap or ring used for holding parts of a rod, &c., together, and for giving strength to weakened materials, or especially, when attached to the end of a stick, umbrella, &c., for preventing wearing or splitting . The word is properly verrel or verril, in which form it was used till the 18th century, and is derived through the O . Fr. virelle, modern II virole, from a Latin diminutive viriola of viriae, bracelets . The form in which the word is now known is due to the influence of Latin ferrum, iron . " Ferrule " must be distinguished from " ferule " or `` ferula," properly the Latin name of the " giant fennel." From the use of the stalk of this plant as a cane or rod for punishment, comes the application of the word to many instruments used in chastisement, more particularly a short flat piece of wood or leather shaped somewhat like the sole of a' boot, and applied to the palms of the hand . It is the common form of disciplinary instrument in Roman Catholic schools; the pain inflicted is exceedingly sharp and immediate, but the effects are momentary and leave no chance for any dangerous results . The word is sometimes applied to the ordinary cane as used by schoolmasters .