GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 2 definitions 

  1.       

    Cowl , n. [AS. cuhle, cugle, cugele; cf. dial. G. kogel, gugel, OF. coule, goule; all fr. LL. cuculla, cucullus, fr. L. cucullus cap, hood; perh. akin to celare to conceal, cella cell. Cf. Cucullate.]
    1. A monk's hood; -- usually attached to the gown. The name was also applied to the hood and garment together.
      1913 Webster
      What differ more, you cry, than crown and cowl?
      Pope.

      1913 Webster
    2. A cowl-shaped cap, commonly turning with the wind, used to improve the draft of a chimney, ventilating shaft, etc.
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    3. A wire cap for the smokestack of a locomotive.
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    4. (aviation) a removable metal covering for an aircraft engine, providing streamlining to minimize wind resistance; -- also called cowling.
      PJC
    5. a covering for a chimney or other ventilating shaft functioning to increase the draft.
      PJC
    
      
    
  2.       

    Cowl, n. [Cf. OF. cuvele, cuvel, dim. of F. cuve tub, vat, fr. L. cupa. See Cup.] A vessel carried on a pole between two persons, for conveyance of water.
    Johnson.

    1913 Webster