Awl \Awl\ ([add]l), n. [OE. aul, awel, al, AS. [=ae]l, awel;
akin to Icel. alr, OHG. [=a]la, G. ahle, Lith. yla, Skr.
[=a]r[=a].]
A pointed instrument for piercing small holes, as in leather
or wood; used by shoemakers, saddlers, cabinetmakers, etc.
The blade is differently shaped and pointed for different
uses, as in the {brad awl}, {saddler's awl}, {shoemaker's
awl}, etc.
[1913 Webster]