Emily Dickinson Lexicon

FLAIL, n. [D. vlegel; G. flegel; L. flagellum; Fr. fleau. We retain the original verb in flog, to strike, to lay on, L. fligo, whence affligo, to afflict; Gr. πληγη, L. plaga, a stroke, or perhaps from the same root as lick and lay. See Lick.]

An instrument for thrashing or beating corn from the ear.