engrail

transitive verb

en·​grail
ə̇nˈgrāl,
en-,
chiefly before pause or consonant -āəl
-ed/-ing/-s
1
a
: to indent (something, such as a heraldic ordinary) with small curves see engrailed
b
: to ornament especially with a pattern indented on the edge
2
obsolete : to carve in intaglio
3
a
obsolete : roughen
b
: to cause to appear serrated
a scene engrailed by three tall peaks

Word History

Etymology

Middle English engrelen, from Middle French engresler, from en- en- entry 1 + gresle, graisle slender, from Latin gracilis

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near engrail

Cite this Entry

“Engrail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/engrail. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!