I. ˈferəl noun
( -s )
Etymology: alteration (influenced by Latin ferrum iron) of Middle English virell, verelle, virole, from Middle French virelle, virole, from Old French virol, from Latin viriola small bracelet, diminutive of viria armlet, bracelet, of Celtic origin; akin to Old Irish fiar oblique — more at veer
1.
a. : a band or cap usually of metal enclosing the end of a cane, tool handle, table leg, or similar object to strengthen it or prevent splitting and wearing
b. : the protective point or knob on the far end of an umbrella
c. : the edge or corner covering of a book
2. : a tube or bushing making a tight joint between a tube and tube plate or between two tubes or pipes (as of different metals)
3.
a. : the metal band around a paint brush that binds the bristles to the head
b. : a metal or plastic band holding an eraser to a pencil
4. : one of the complementary parts of a joint of a demountable fishing rod consisting of a sleeve and a shaft fitting into it to join the sections — called also respectively female ferrule, male ferrule
5. : a metal band or socket in which the terminal of a wire or wire rope is secured for firm grip
6. : a plug for a cleanout in a plumbing trap or soil pipe
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: alteration (influenced by Latin ferrum iron) of Middle English virellen, from Middle French vireler, from Old French viroler, from virol, n.
: to supply with a ferrule