The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Awl \Awl\ ([add]l), n. [OE. aul, awel, al, AS. [=ae]l, awel;
   akin to Icel. alr, OHG. [=a]la, G. ahle, Lith. yla, Skr.
   [=a]r[=a].]
   A pointed instrument for piercing small holes, as in leather
   or wood; used by shoemakers, saddlers, cabinetmakers, etc.
   The blade is differently shaped and pointed for different
   uses, as in the brad awl, saddler's awl, shoemaker's
   awl, etc.
   [1913 Webster]