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Needle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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needle

[ˈniːdəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sewing

A small, slender, pointed piece of metal with a hole or eye in the top for passing thread through, used in sewing.

Synonyms

pin, sewing needle, sharp.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
needle

General term used to refer to thin, pointed tools used for sewing, medical injections, or other purposes. Can also indicate something that annoys or causes discomfort, especially in a metaphorical sense.

  • She carefully threaded the needle before starting to sew.
  • He felt a sharp needle of pain in his side.
pin

A small, slender, often pointed piece of metal used for fastening or attaching things, such as fabric in sewing or hair in hairstyling. Also used to indicate a location marker in maps or to describe immobilizing someone.

  • She used a pin to hold the fabric in place while sewing.
  • He dropped a pin on the map to mark the destination.
sewing needle

Specifically refers to a needle used for sewing fabric. It has an eye where the thread passes through and is designed for hand or machine stitching.

  • You need a sewing needle and some thread to fix that tear in your shirt.
  • She carefully selected the right sewing needle for the thick fabric.
sharp

Describes something with a fine edge or point that can cut or pierce easily. Can also be used metaphorically to describe intelligence, clarity, or intensity.

  • Be careful with that knife; it's very sharp.
  • His sharp wit made the conversation quite enjoyable.

Examples of usage

  • I need a needle to sew on this button.
  • She pricked her finger with a needle while hemming her dress.
Context #2 | Noun

medicine

A hollow, sharp-pointed instrument used for injecting or withdrawing fluids.

Synonyms

hypodermic needle, injector, syringe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
needle

Interchanged term for 'syringe needle' in many instances, can sometimes mean 'hypodermic needle' but is less specific.

  • She was terrified of the needle at the doctor's office
  • The tattoo artist used a sterilized needle
syringe

A medical instrument typically consisting of a tube and plunger, used for injecting or withdrawing fluids. Always includes the barrel and plunger along with the needle.

  • The nurse filled the syringe with medication
  • He carefully drew the blood into the syringe
injector

Typically refers to a device or tool used for injecting substances into something, not limited to medical use. Often used in mechanical or technical fields.

  • The technician used an injector to add oil to the engine
  • In medical settings, they might use an insulin injector for diabetes patients
hypodermic needle

Specifically refers to a medical needle used for injections or drawing fluids from the body. It is often associated with medical and clinical settings.

  • The nurse prepared a hypodermic needle for the flu vaccine
  • He was afraid of hypodermic needles

Examples of usage

  • The nurse used a needle to administer the vaccine.
  • The doctor drew blood using a needle.
Context #3 | Noun

compass

A thin, pointed piece of magnetic material, such as steel, that is magnetized and used in a compass or similar instrument.

Synonyms

compass needle, magnetic needle, pointer.

Examples of usage

  • The needle of the compass pointed to the north.
  • He adjusted the needle on the navigation device.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Archaeologists found needles dating back to 30,000 years ago, suggesting early humans used them for sewing animal skins.
  • In ancient Egypt, needles were made from materials like bronze, showcasing advanced metalworking skills of the time.

Pop Culture

  • Needles have appeared in various films and literature as symbols of precision or care, often associated with sewing or crafting.
  • The phrase 'the needle in the haystack' is popularly used to describe a difficult search, originating from the challenge of finding an actual needle among hay.

Science

  • Modern needles are highly engineered for medical use, ensuring safe injections for vaccinations and treatments.
  • Hypodermic needles, invented in the 19th century, revolutionized how medicines are delivered, allowing for precise dosages.

Psychology

  • The act of sewing can be therapeutic, helping to reduce anxiety and promote mindfulness, as it requires focus and repetitive motion.
  • For many, crafting with a needle can trigger feelings of nostalgia, often reminding them of home and comfort.

Origin of 'needle'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'needle' comes from the Old English 'nædl', which means to puncture or make holes.
  • In Latin, the word 'acus' referred to a sharp tool, hinting at how important needles were for sewing.

The word 'needle' originated from Old English 'nǣdl', which is related to Dutch 'naald' and German 'Nadel'. The concept of a needle as a tool for sewing has been around for centuries, with early needles being made from bone or wood. Over time, metal needles became more common, revolutionizing the art of sewing. Needles have also been used in medicine for centuries, evolving from simple metal instruments to the advanced hypodermic needles used today. The magnetic needle in compasses has been crucial for navigation and exploration throughout history.

See also: need, neediness, needlessly, needs, needy, unneeded.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,838, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.