Meanings
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1
verb
to twist or deform something into a rough, knotted shape
Years of coastal wind can gnarl the branches of a young tree.
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2
noun
a hard knot or twisted swelling in wood, especially on a tree
The carpenter cut around a large gnarl in the oak board.
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3
verb
archaic: to growl, mutter, or complain under one's breath
The wounded man began to gnarl at anyone who approached him.
Thesaurus
Etymology
The wood noun and twisting verb are back-formations from gnarled. Their earlier history is uncertain and may overlap with words for a knot or rough projection. The growling verb is a separate imitative use.