FERRULE, a small metal cap or ring holding parts of a rod, etc., together, or giving strength to weakened materials, or espe cially, when attached to the end of a stick or umbrella, for pre venting wearing or splitting (Fr. virole from Lat. diminutive viriae, bracelets, cf. also Lat. f erruin, 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 chastisements, particularly a short flat piece of wood or leather, shaped somewhat like the sole of a boot, and applied to the palm of the hand; the pain inflicted is exceedingly sharp and immediate, but the effects are momentary. The word is sometimes applied to the ordinary cane as used by schoolmasters.