I. ˈbraŋk intransitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle English branken
dialect Britain : prance , caper
II. noun
( -s )
Etymology: origin unknown
1.
a. : an instrument consisting of an iron frame surrounding the head and a sharp metal bit or gag entering the mouth formerly used to punish scolds — called also scold's bridle ; usually used in plural
b. branks plural , now chiefly Scotland : a bridle or halter for horses or cows
2. branks plural , Scotland : mumps