▪ I.knevel erroneous form of kevel n.2 1627Capt. Smith Seaman's Gram. ii. 7 Kneuels are small pieces of wood nailed to the inside of the ship, to belay the sheats and tackes vnto.1678Phillips (ed. 4), Knivels[1706 (ed. Kersey), Knevels or Kevels]. ▪ II.knevel var. nevel v.