ducking stool

a former instrument of punishment consisting of a chair in which an offender was tied to be plunged into water.

Origin of ducking stool

First recorded in 1590–1600

But I cannot think any save the most ignoble criminals ever sat in a ducking-stool.

Curious Punishments of Bygone Days |Alice Morse Earle
Scolds had to be ducked over head and ears in a ducking-stool.

Bygone Punishments |William Andrews
The pillory or stocks, whipping post, and ducking-stool were maintained at every county seat, and were familiar objects to all.

The Colonies 1492-1750 |Reuben Gold Thwaites
Kirkham had its brank for scolds, in addition to a ducking-stool.

Bygone Punishments |William Andrews

The ducking-stool, for example, was an appliance for softening the female temper only.

The Shadow On The Dial, and Other Essays |Ambrose Bierce

ducking stool

history a chair or stool used for the punishment of offenders by plunging them into water