Definition of "pawl" in English

noun

1. A pivoted catch designed to fall into a notch on a ratchet wheel so as to allow movement in only one direction (e.g. on a windlass or in a clock mechanism), or alternatively to move the wheel in one direction.

2. A similar device to prevent motion in other mechanisms besides ratchets.

verb

1. (transitive) To stop with a pawl.

noun

1. Alternative form of paul (“kind of tent”).