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]

V.E.R.A. -- Virtual Entity of Relevant Acronyms (June 2006):

AWL
       AnWeisungsListe (DIN 19239)


Easton's 1897 Bible Dictionary:

Awl
an instrument only referred to in connection with the custom of
boring the ear of a slave (Ex. 21:6; Deut. 15:17), in token of
his volunteering perpetual service when he might be free. (Comp.
Ps. 40:6; Isa. 50:5).