n. [ Dim., fr. carl male. ] An old woman. [ Scot. & Prov. Eng. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

[ F. carline, It., Sp., & Pg., carlina. Said to be so called from the Emperor Charlemagne, whose army is reputed to have used it as a remedy for pestilence. ] (Bot.) A prickly plant of the genus Carlina (Carlina vulgaris), found in Europe and Asia. [ 1913 Webster ]

{ n. [ Cf. F. carlingur, Sp. Pg., & It. carlinga. ] (Naut.) A short timber running lengthwise of a ship, from one transverse desk beam to another; also, one of the cross timbers that strengthen a hath; -- usually in pl. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. pl. Same as Carl, 3. [ 1913 Webster ]

Carling Sunday, a Sunday in Lent when carls are eaten. In some parts of England, Passion Sunday. See Carl, 4. [ 1913 Webster ]