noun
awl
Awl (noun) means a small pointed tool used for making holes, especially in leather or wood.
noun
1
A small pointed tool used for making holes, especially in leather or wood.
2
Any of a number of butterflies belonging to the hesperiid group.
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Etymology
Came into English from Middle English aul, alle or al, which went back to Old English æl, from Proto-West Germanic *al, from Proto-Germanic *alaz, from Proto-Indo-European *h₁ólos. It is cognate with Saterland Frisian Äil (“awl”), Dutch aal (“awl”), German Low German Ahl (“awl”), German Ahle (“awl”) and Icelandic alur (“awl”). Its spelling was influenced by the Old English synonym awel or awul, meaning “awl”, from Proto-West Germanic *ahwal, from Proto-Germanic *ahwalaz, “fork, hook”, of unknown origin. It is a doublet of elsen.
Rhymes for awl
See all rhymes for awl →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of awl?
"awl" (noun) means a small pointed tool used for making holes, especially in leather or wood.
What are the different meanings of awl?
"awl" has 2 main meanings: 1. A small pointed tool used for making holes, especially in leather or wood; 2. Any of a number of butterflies belonging to the hesperiid group.
