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Definition

A burl is a large rounded outgrowth on the trunk or branch of a tree.

Above:A large burl on a swamp mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta) tree. 

Etymology. burly: c.1300, perhaps from O.E. burlic "noble, stately," lit. "bowerly," fit to frequent a lady's apartment (see bower). Sense descended through "stout," and "sturdy" by 15c. to "heavily built." Another theory connects the original word to O.H.G. burlih "lofty, exalted," related to burjan "to raise, lift."