\Punch"eon\, n. [F. poin[,c]on awl, bodkin, crown,
king-post, fr. L. punctio a pricking, fr. pungere to prick.
See {Pungent}, and cf. {Punch} a tool, {Punction}.]
1. A figured stamp, die, or punch, used by goldsmiths,
   cutlers, etc.
2. (Carp.) A short, upright piece of timber in framing; a
   short post; an intermediate stud. --Oxf. Gloss.
3. A split log or heavy slab with the face smoothed; as, a
   floor made of puncheons. [U.S.] --Bartlett.
4. [F. poin[,c]on, perh. the same as poin[,c]on an awl.] A
   cask containing, sometimes 84, sometimes 120, gallons.