tribulum

farm implement

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July 14, 2026

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The term "tribulum" refers to a threshing board studded with spikes, used in ancient times for separating grain from chaff and straw. This implement is related to the Greek word tribolos, which described various prickly plants and also a threshing board.1

Historically, primitive methods of threshing grain included beating it with a flail or trampling it with animal hooves. The flail, a hand tool consisting of a handstaff and a beater, was the primary method for threshing until the mid-19th century when mechanical threshers became common. Early threshing machines, powered by horsepower, were later superseded by larger machines powered by steam engines or tractors, and eventually by combines.23

The word "tribulum" is also etymologically linked to the genus Tribulus, which are herbs with spiny fruits, and Tribolium, a genus of beetles whose larvae feed on dry cereal products.14

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origins of agriculture
Harvesting and processing
…an implement known as a tribulum, a wooden framework with bits of flint or metal fixed to the underside, hauled over the grain by an animal. Winnowing was still done by tossing in the air from a winnowing basket when there was a favorable wind to blow away the chaff.
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…an implement known as a tribulum, a wooden framework with bits of flint or metal fixed to the underside, hauled over the grain by an animal. Winnowing was still done by tossing in the air from a winnowing basket when there was a favorable wind to blow away the chaff.
Read More