/kreel/ , n.
1. a wickerwork basket worn on the back or suspended from the shoulder, used esp. by anglers for carrying fish.
2. a basket made of wicker or other material, for holding fish, lobsters, etc.
3. a trap for fish, lobsters, etc., esp. one made of wicker.
4. a framework, esp. one for holding bobbins in a spinning machine.
[ 1275-1325; ME crele, of uncert. orig. ]