herl

American  

[hurl] / hɜrl /

noun

1. a barb of a feather, used especially in dressing anglers' flies.

2. an artificial fly dressed with a herl.

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herl British  

/ hɜːl /

noun

1. the barb or barbs of a feather, used to dress fishing flies

2. an artificial fly dressed with such barbs

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Etymology

Origin of herl

1300–50; Middle English; cognate with Middle Low German herle, harle, Low German harl fibre, hair of flax or hemp

Example Sentences

What did be think I coaid do jot herl We’re here to fight wildlings. not save them.

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin

Stone Fly,—Mallard's feather from the back,—very large for wings,—two strands of yellow, and one of drab,—Ostrich herl neatly ribbed,—tie with brown silk.—horns and tail, black cat's whiskers.

From The Teesdale Angler by Lakeland, R.

Body greenish herl of Peacock,—ribbed with gold tinsel,—wrapt with red silk,—red hackle over all.

From The Teesdale Angler by Lakeland, R.

Chenille, wool, gold, silver, silk, herl, or various other materials are used for tags.

From How to Tie Flies by Gregg, Ellery Clark

House Fly,—lark's quill feather,—light brown silk,—ribbed with dark Ostrich herl for body,—legs grizzled hackle.

From The Teesdale Angler by Lakeland, R.