Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Harl \Harl\, n. [Cf. OHG. harluf noose, rope; E. hards refuse of
   flax.]
   1. A filamentous substance; especially, the filaments of flax
      or hemp.

   2. A barb, or barbs, of a fine large feather, as of a peacock
      or ostrich, -- used in dressing artificial flies. [Written
      also {herl}.]