adjective
gnarled
NARLD/nɑːrld/
Twisted, knotty, or rough from age or growth.
The old oak spreads its gnarled branches across the narrow path.
Etymology
Gnarled is probably a variant of knurled, associated with knots and protruding masses in wood. This image of uneven, knotty growth underlies its use for twisted and rough shapes.
In context
nor reaped his beard; which darkly grew all gnarled, as unearthed roots of trees blown over
More examples
- Gnarled roots make the woodland trail difficult to walk.
- Her grandfather's gnarled hands still move deftly over the piano keys.
- The olive tree has a thick, gnarled trunk.
Forms
gnarled
Similar words
- knotty
- Emphasizes knots or lumps rather than an overall twisted shape.
- twisted
- Emphasizes bending or spiraling, without necessarily suggesting age or roughness.