Definitions For Thirl

Alternative forms

thurl

Etymology 1

From Middle English thirl, thiril, from , from , from which is *tr̥h₂kʷe + *-lo (equivalent to through + le) from *terh₂-. Related to , .

Noun

THIRL (plural THIRLs) (archaic, or, dialectal) A hole, aperture, especially a nostril. (dialectal) A low door in a dry-stone wall to allow sheep to pass through; a smoot.

Etymology 2

From Middle English thirlen, thurlen, thorlen, from , þyrelian, , to make a hole through, pierce through, perforate; make hollow, excavate; make vain, from the noun (see above).

Verb

To pierce, perforate, penetrate. (obsolete) To drill or bore.

Derived terms

nostril thirlable thrill

Etymology 3

Origin uncertain. Perhaps a throw, hurl

Verb

(obsolete) To throw (a projectile).

Etymology 4

Dialectal alteration of thrall.

Alternative forms

Verb

(historical, transitive) To legally bind (a tenant) to the use of one's own property as an owner.

Related terms

thirlage

Noun

THIRL (plural THIRLs) (historical) A thrall.