Definition of awl
: a pointed tool for marking surfaces or piercing small holes (as in leather or wood)
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Recent Examples of awl from the Web
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Guided by evidence from the past, researchers used a stone flake and a bird bone awl to weave rushes into bottles.
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The two began to fight, and Fitz-Gordon stabbed the woman several times in the arm and head with the awl, police said.
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The woman was parked in a space when Fitz-Gordon walked over and tapped on her window with an awl, a screwdriver-like tool with a sharp point used to make holes in wood, leather or other materials.
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Use an awl or pick to catch the end of a piece and pry it up.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'awl.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Illustration of awl
Origin and Etymology of awl
Middle English al, from Old English æl; akin to Old High German āla awl, Sanskrit ārā
AWL Defined for English Language Learners
awl
playDefinition of awl for English Language Learners
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: a pointed tool that is used for marking surfaces or for making small holes in leather, wood, etc.
AWL Defined for Kids
awl
playDefinition of awl for Students
: a pointed tool for making small holes (as in leather or wood)
Learn More about awl
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See words that rhyme with awl Spanish Central: Translation of awl Nglish: Translation of awl for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about awl
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