2. (Science: chemistry) An earthenware compartment or oven, often shaped like a half cylinder, used in furnaces to protect objects heated from the direct action of the fire, as in scorification of ores, cupellation of ore buttons, etc.
4. A pulley block containing several sheaves.
Origin: F. Moufle, prop, a mitten, from the resemblance in shape. See Muffle, Muff.