Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Noil \Noil\, n. [Prob. fr. Prov. E. oil, ile, ail, a beard of
   grain (OE. eil, AS. egl) combined with the indef. article, an
   oil becoming a noil.]
   A short or waste piece or knot of wool separated from the
   longer staple by combing; also, a similar piece or shred of
   waste silk.