: a pointed tool for marking surfaces or piercing small holes (as in leather or wood)

Illustration of awl

Illustration of awl

Examples of awl in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Archaeologists have found scrapers used in hide production, as well as needles and awls needed for sewing at sites associated with anatomically modern humans. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 16 Apr. 2025 Archaeologists have found needles and awls — tools associated with sewing — at H. sapiens sites, but not among Neanderthal digs. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 16 Apr. 2025 The tools split between the two sides include a plain-edge blade, saw that doubles as the ferro striker, stake puller, awl, bottle opener and ruler. New Atlas, 18 Feb. 2025 Make cuts with an awl or another pointed tool, then insert the stems. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 4 Sep. 2023 See All Example Sentences for awl

Word History

Etymology

Middle English al, from Old English æl; akin to Old High German āla awl, Sanskrit ārā

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of awl was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Awl.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/awl. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

awl

noun
: a pointed tool for marking surfaces or for making small holes (as in leather or wood)

More from Merriam-Webster on awl

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