Obs. [a. OF. forche: see FORK sb.]

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  1.  In pl. Gallows.

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c. 1380.  Sir Ferumb., 2881.

        Þan scholtou don þe forchys there …
And to-morwe let þes be þar an honge.
    Ibid., 2970.
Þar þat þe fourchys was.

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1584.  J. Hooker, Descr. Excester (1765), 82. He commanded forches and gallowes to be set vp in sundrie places, as well within the citie as also in the countrie; and did command and cause manie to be executed and put to death, especiallie such as were noted to be chiefe and busie dooers & ringleaders in this rebellion.

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  2.  Hunting. (See FOUCH.)

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