Kev″el (?), n. [Prov. E. kevil, cavel, rod, pole, a large hammer, horse's bit; cf. Icel. kefli cylinder, a stick, mangle, and Dan. kievle a roller.] 1. (Naut.) A strong cleat to which large ropes are belayed.
2. A stone mason's hammer. [Written also cavil.]
Kevel head(Naut.), a projecting end of a timber, used as a kevel.