Loom: meaning, definitions and examples

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loom

 

[ luːm ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

textile production

A loom is a device used for weaving fabric by interlacing threads at right angles. Looms can range from small hand-held frames to large industrial machines.

Synonyms

weaver, weaving machine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
loom

This can be confusing, but 'loom' as a verb means something is about to happen and is often used to describe something impending, usually with a sense of foreboding.

  • A storm loomed on the horizon.
  • The threat of layoffs loomed over the employees.
weaving machine

A modern, automated version of a loom specifically designed for the process of weaving.

  • The factory installed a new weaving machine to increase production.
  • The weaving machine hummed as it produced yards of fabric.
weaver

Refers to a person whose occupation is weaving cloth, fabrics, etc.

  • The weaver worked tirelessly at her loom.
  • Ancient weavers created beautiful tapestries.

Examples of usage

  • The weaver operated the loom to create a beautiful tapestry.
  • She sat at the loom for hours, carefully weaving the intricate design.
Context #2 | Verb

to appear in a large or threatening form

To loom means to appear as a shadowy, oversized, or threatening figure.

Synonyms

dominate, tower.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
loom

Loom is often used to describe something large and threatening that appears indistinct or shadowy. It implies a sense of impending danger or importance.

  • A dark shape loomed on the horizon
  • Financial troubles loomed large over the project
tower

Tower is used to describe something that stands high above its surroundings, often impressively or even majestically. It generally has a more positive or neutral connotation.

  • The ancient castle towers over the village
  • He towered above his peers, both in height and leadership
dominate

Dominate is used to describe a situation where someone or something has control or power over others. It can refer to physical power, influence, or authority.

  • The skyscraper dominates the city skyline
  • She tends to dominate conversations with her strong opinions

Examples of usage

  • The dark clouds loomed over the horizon, signaling an approaching storm.
  • His tall figure loomed in the doorway, casting a shadow over the room.

Translations

Translations of the word "loom" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tear

🇮🇳 करघा

🇩🇪 Webstuhl

🇮🇩 alat tenun

🇺🇦 ткацький верстат

🇵🇱 krosno

🇯🇵 織機 (しょっき)

🇫🇷 métier à tisser

🇪🇸 telar

🇹🇷 dokuma tezgahı

🇰🇷 베틀

🇸🇦 نول

🇨🇿 tkalcovský stav

🇸🇰 tkáčsky stav

🇨🇳 织布机 (zhībùjī)

🇸🇮 stroj za tkanje

🇮🇸 vefstóll

🇰🇿 тоқыма машинасы

🇬🇪 საკერავი სადგური

🇦🇿 toxucu dəzgahı

🇲🇽 telar

Etymology

The word 'loom' originated from the Old English word 'geloma' meaning tool or utensil. It has been used in the English language since the 13th century to refer to the weaving device. The verb form 'loom' to describe something appearing large or threatening has been in use since the 16th century.

See also: looming.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,728, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.