† sperel Obs.
Also sperl-.
[prob. of Flem. origin: cf. WFlem. spèrel, sperrel door-bar, f. sperren spar v.1]
A means of closing or fastening; a bar or bolt; a book-clasp.
| 13.. S. Erkenwolde 49 in Horstm. Altengl. Leg. (1881) 267 Thre sperlis of þe spelunke þat spradde [? read sparde] hit o lofte Was metely made of þe marbre. c 1440 Promp. Parv. 365/1 Ondoynge, or opynynge of schettellys, or sperellys, apercio. Ibid. 469/1 Sperel, or closel yn schetynge,..firmaculum. Ibid., Sperel, of a boke,..offendix,..signaculum. |