gābălus (noun M) : an old Germ. word, i. q. the modern Gabel (fork); hence, as an instrument of punishment
* A kind of gallows (syn.: furca, patibulum, crux).
* Lit.: in gabalum aliquem suffigere, Varr. ap. Non. 117, 15.—*
* Transf., as a term of reproach, gallows-bird, hang-dog, Macrin. ap. Capit. Macrin. 11.

s. TLL