awl
UK[ɔːl]US[ɔːl]
n
a small pointed tool used for making holes, especially in leather or wood.
Etymology
The word 'awl' has a deep and ancient lineage, tracing back to the Proto-Indo-European root h₂el-, meaning "to burn" or "to shine." This root gave rise to words associated with pointed, piercing, or sharp objects, likely through the concept of a burning or stinging sensation. It passed into Proto-Germanic as alwō, which evolved into the Old English 'æl' or 'awel.' The modern spelling 'awl' has remained remarkably stable for over a millennium, preserving its core meaning of a simple, sharp-pointed tool for piercing materials.
Analysis
This is a simplex word of Old English origin. The entire word 'awl' functions as a single, unanalyzable morpheme in modern English.
Examples
The cobbler used an awl to punch holes in the leather for the stitches.
Before the invention of the electric drill, an awl was an essential tool for starting screw holes in wood.
She carefully guided the awl through the thick belt to create a clean, even hole.