[trow.el] n [ME truel, fr. MF truelle, fr. LL truella, fr. L trulla ladle] (14c): any of various hand tools used to apply, spread, shape, or smooth loose or plastic material; also: a scoop-shaped or flat-bladed garden tool for taking up and setting small plants
[2]trowel vt -eled or -elled ; -el.ing or -el.ling (ca. 1670): to smooth, mix, or apply with or as if with a trowel -- trow.el.er n