Obs. exc. dial. [Etymology doubtful.] A tub; esp. a shallow oval tub. also attrib. turnel boat: see quot. 16882.
1688. R. Holme, Armoury, III. xiv. (Roxb.), 11/2. He beareth Gules, a Tub, or Turnell, with handles Argent, Hooped … also termed a Netting or washing Turnell, because in such washer women and Laundresses use to wash their linnens. Ibid., xv. 26/1. A Tumbrell boate, or flat bottomed boate, or Turnell boate…. This kind of boate is for the conveying of cowes or horses.
1875. Auctioneer’s Catal., in Miss Jackson, Shropsh. Word-bk. (1879), Salting turnel.
1886. Cheshire Gloss., Turnel.… Large ones are used for scalding pigs and are called ‘pig turnels.’ Smaller ones are used for various purposes, such as putting under a cheese press; kneading bread, salting meat, etc.
