Legal Definitions - castigatory

Definition: A historical device used for punishing scolds, bakers, and brewers by repeatedly plunging them underwater or into stinking water. Also known as ducking stool, cucking stool, or trebucket.

Example: In ancient Saxon times, a device called the scealfing stole was used as a castigatory to punish scolds. In Domesday Book, it was referred to as cathedra stercoralis. The punishment involved repeatedly plunging the offender underwater. Bakers and brewers were also punished using this device by ducking them into stinking water, possibly into a midden.

Explanation: The example illustrates how castigatory was used as a device for punishing scolds, bakers, and brewers by repeatedly plunging them underwater or into stinking water. The punishment was meant to humiliate and shame the offender in public. The use of castigatory was prevalent in ancient times, and it was considered a legal punishment for scolds and other offenders.