Answer: gnarling

AnswerCrossword Clue
GNARLINGContorting.
GNARLINGGetting knotty
gnarlingto twist into a knotted or distorted form
gnarlingknotty protuberance on a tree; knot
gnarlingto growl; snarl
gnarlingGNARL, to twist into a state of deformity