something twisted and tight and swollen; their muscles stood out in knots; the old mans fists were two great gnarls; his stomach was in knots

[ Syn: knot ]

twist into a state of deformity; The wind has gnarled this old tree'

make complaining remarks or noises under ones breath; she grumbles when she feels overworked

[ Syn: murmur , mutter , grumble , croak ]