Sprawl (spr&add;l), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Sprawled (spr&add;ld); p. pr. & vb. n. Sprawling.] [OE. spraulen; cf. Sw. sprattla to sprawl, dial. Sw. spralla, Dan. spaelle, spraelde, D. spartelen, spertelen, to flounder, to struggle.]

1.

To spread and stretch the body or limbs carelessly in a horizontal position; to lie with the limbs stretched out ungracefully.

<-- also sprawl out, as to sprawl out all over the couch. -->

2.

To spread irregularly, as vines, plants, or tress; to spread ungracefully, as chirography.

3.

To move, when lying down, with awkward extension and motions of the limbs; to scramble in creeping.

The birds were not fledged; but upon sprawling and struggling to get clear of the flame, down they tumbled. L'Estrange.

 

© Webster 1913.

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