Găl'lows, n. sing.

nounsingular

(găl/lus), n. sing.; pl. GĂL'LOWS-ES. [A-S. galga, gealga, O. Sax. galgo, Goth. galga, Icel. galga, Sw. & Dan. galge, D. galg, O. H. Ger. galgo, kalgo, M. H. Ger. galge, N. H. Ger. galgen. Etymologically and historically considered, gallows is a noun in the plural number, but it is used as a singular, and hence is preceded by a,—a gallows.]

An instrument of punishment on which criminals are executed by hanging, usually consisting of two posts and a cross-beam on the top, to which the criminal is suspended by a rope fastened round his neck; also, a like instrument for suspending any thing.
A wretch who deserves the gallows. [Obs. and rare.] Shak.
(pl.) A pair of suspenders or braces. [Colloq.]