Middle English Dictionary Entry
wranglen v.
Entry Info
| Forms | wranglen v. Also wrangle, (in surname) wrangel. |
| Etymology | From MDu. or MLG: cp. MDu., MLG wrangen & LG wrangeln. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
(a) To contend (with sb.) in a test of strength;—used in fig. context; also, engage in captious dispute (with the law);
(b) as surname.
Associated quotations
a
- c1400 PPl.C (Cmb Dd 3.13)17.80 : Wrangle [Hnt HM 137: Þaugh couetyce wolde whit þe poure wraxle, þei mai nat come to-gederis].
- c1475(c1450) Idley Instr.(Cmb Ee.4.37)2.B.1054 : Somme lordis be of that condicioun, If they haue a seruaunt can toille and tangle And can gete hem goodis by subtell extorcioun And with the lawe also can wrastill and wrangle…He shall be cheif of counceill.
b
- (1312) Leet R.Norwich in Seld.Soc.557 : William Wrangel.
- (1332) Sub.R.Bdf.in Suf.GB 18179 : Johannes Wrangel.
- (1428) Feudal Aids 6288 : Willelmus Wrangle.