Lewis & Short

ĕquŭlĕus or ĕcŭlĕus, i, m. dim. [equus], a young horse, a colt, foal.

  1. I. Lit., Varr., Pompon., and Cic. ap. Non. 105, 11 sq.; Liv. 31, 12.
  2. II. Transf.
    1. A. Eculeos argenteos nobilis aufert, horses wrought in silver, works of art, Cic. Verr. 2, 4, 20, § 42; cf. the sarcastic pun: jactabit se et in his equitabit equuleis, Emi, pecuniam solvi, on these hobbies, id. ib. § 43.
    2. B. As an instrument of torture, a wooden rack in the shape of a horse, Cic. Mil. 21 fin.; id. Poët. Tusc. 3, 28, 67; Curt. 6, 10, 10; Sen. Ep. 67; Amm. 14, 5; Prud. στεφ. 10, 109 al.