a large cask of varying capacity, usu between 70 and 120 gall (318 and 545.5l) [Middle English poncion, from early French ponchon, poinçon, of unknown origin]
a short upright timber for a frame, esp to carry a load, e.g. a roofa split log or heavy slab with the face smootheda punch3 (tool for embossing, perforating, etc), esp a die used by goldsmiths, cutlers, and engravers [Middle English ponson pointed tool or weapon, king post, from early French poinçon, ultimately from Latin punctus, past part. of pungere to prick]