goad

The goad is a traditional farming implement, used to spur or guide an animal, usually oxen, which are pulling a plough or a cart. It is a type of cattle prod. Though many people are unfamiliar with them today, goads have been common throughout the world.

Description

An ox goad is traditionally a wooden stick or pole with a pointed tip.

Some are reported to have been 8 to 10 feet long, others 5 to 7 feet. The goad is cited as the origin of two units of measurement: the rod, which is 16.5 feet; and the goad, which is 4.5 feet. Some were 2 inches in diameter at the thickest end; others were 6 inches.

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