gnarl
1. [ verb ] make complaining remarks or noises under one's breath
Synonyms: mutter grumble croak murmur
Examples:

"she grumbles when she feels overworked"

Related terms: complain grumble
2. [ verb ] twist into a state of deformity
Examples:

"The wind has gnarled this old tree"

Related terms: bend knot
3. [ noun ] something twisted and tight and swollen
Synonyms: knot
Examples:

"their muscles stood out in knots" "the old man's fists were two great gnarls" "his stomach was in knots"

Related terms: distorted_shape
Similar spelling:   gnarly
  gnarled