—n.
1 = WEAL(1).
2 a ridge on a woven fabric, e.g. corduroy.
3 Naut. a broad thick timber along a ship's side.
4 a specially woven strong band round a woven basket.
—v.tr. provide or mark with wales.
Phrases and idioms:
wale-knot a knot made at the end of a rope by intertwining strands to prevent unravelling or act as a stopper.
Etymology: OE walu stripe, ridge
Useful english dictionary. 2012.