yule log

a large log of wood that traditionally formed the backlog of the fire at Christmas.

Also called yule block, yule clog.

Origin of yule log

First recorded in 1715–25

yukon territory, yukon time, yukoner, yulan, yule, yule log, yuletide, yum, yum-yum, yuma, yuman

The yule-log was blazing on the hearth, and their cups were bright and plenished.

Traditions of Lancashire, Volume 2 (of 2) |John Roby
The Christmas-block or Yule-log, above referred to, is of very ancient date.

Christmastide |William Sandys
The Yule-log was larger than ever, and the blaze kept continually on the roar.

Traditions of Lancashire, Volume 1 (of 2) |John Roby
One fire-place would have contained a Yule-log from any tree in the primeval forest.

Nooks and Corners of the New England Coast |Samuel Adams Drake

The great log, still called the Yule-log, was dragged in and burned in the fireplace after Thor had been forgotten.

The Vision of Sir Launfal |James Russell Lowell

yule log

a large log of wood traditionally used as the foundation of a fire in the hearth at Christmas