Thread: meaning, definitions and examples

🧵
Add to dictionary

thread

 

[θrɛd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sewing

A long, thin strand of cotton, nylon, or other fibers used in sewing or weaving.

Synonyms

fiber, string, yarn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
thread

Used when talking about a thin strand of material, especially used in sewing or for a topic in an online discussion.

  • She used a red thread to sew the button back on
  • The discussion thread on the forum became very long
fiber

Refers to strands of material that are used to make fabric or textiles or can describe dietary content in food.

  • Cotton fibers are spun into threads for fabric
  • This vegetable is rich in fiber
yarn

Usually refers to a thicker strand of material used for knitting or weaving.

  • She bought some colorful yarn to knit a scarf
string

A thin cord that is used for tying things together, playing musical instruments, or in computing as a sequence of characters.

  • He tied the package with a piece of string
  • The guitar string broke during the performance
  • The programmer searched for a specific string in the code

Examples of usage

  • She used a red thread to sew the buttons on her shirt.
  • The embroidery thread was intricately woven into the fabric.
Context #2 | Noun

conversation

A particular topic or subject that is discussed or elaborated.

Synonyms

discussion, subject, topic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
thread

Used mainly in online forums or message boards to refer to a sequence of messages or posts on a particular subject.

  • Have you seen the new thread on travel tips?
  • The discussion thread about the movie has some interesting points.
topic

A general term used to denote the main point of interest or theme of a conversation, article, or presentation.

  • Today's topic is digital marketing.
  • She suggested a new topic for our project.
subject

Typically used to refer to the main focus or theme of a conversation, email, or academic study.

  • What's the subject of today's meeting?
  • The email subject line should be clear and concise.
discussion

Refers to an exchange of ideas or debate about a particular topic, typically in a formal or semi-formal setting.

  • We had a long discussion about the new policies.
  • The panel discussion on climate change was very informative.

Examples of usage

  • The discussion moved on to a new thread.
  • The comments on the forum thread were informative.
Context #3 | Verb

online forums

To post comments or replies in an online discussion.

Synonyms

comment, post, reply.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
thread

Used in online forums or discussion boards to refer to a series of messages or posts on a particular topic.

  • Did you see the new thread about travel tips?
  • Let's start a thread to discuss the project details.
comment

A response or opinion added to an existing post, message, or article, often on social media or blogs.

  • I left a comment on your blog post.
  • He always leaves thoughtful comments on Facebook.
reply

A direct response to a specific message, email, or comment, often in one-on-one communication or on forums.

  • I quickly sent a reply to her email.
  • He replied to my comment with more information.
post

A single message or piece of content shared on social media, forums, blogs, or other platforms.

  • I just published a new post on my blog.
  • Her post about the event went viral.

Examples of usage

  • I will thread my response in the existing conversation.
  • Make sure to thread your comments in the appropriate section.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'thread' comes from the Old English 'þræd,' which means 'to twist or string.'
  • It shares roots with other languages; for instance, in German, 'Faden' means 'thread.'
  • Historically, 'thread' has been used both literally for textiles and metaphorically to describe connections in storytelling.

Textiles and Fashion

  • In ancient times, thread was made from materials like silk, linen, or wool, showing the resourcefulness of early cultures.
  • The process of spinning thread from fibers is an age-old craft still celebrated in festivals around the world.
  • Today, specialized threads are used in various industries, such as strong nylon for military uniforms or elastic threads for comfortable clothing.

Technology

  • In computing, a 'thread' refers to a sequence of instructions that can be managed independently by a scheduler, allowing for multitasking.
  • The term 'threading' in software allows multiple processes to run simultaneously, improving efficiency and performance.
  • Just like a needle and thread create connections in fabric, computer threads help connect different processes efficiently.

Literature

  • In stories, a 'thread' can symbolize a theme or idea that weaves through the narrative, binding everything together.
  • Authors often use 'thread' as a metaphor for continuity, connecting different parts of a story to create a cohesive whole.
  • Famous works sometimes have multiple threads weaving together characters and plots, making the narrative richer and more intricate.

Psychology

  • In cognitive psychology, a 'thread' might refer to the sequence of thoughts we follow in problem-solving or decision-making.
  • The 'thread of consciousness' concept describes how our thoughts can seamlessly flow from one to another, like a continuous piece of string.
  • Therapeutic practices sometimes encourage individuals to untangle their emotional threads to better understand their feelings.

Translations

Translations of the word "thread" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fio

🇮🇳 धागा

🇩🇪 Faden

🇮🇩 benang

🇺🇦 нитка

🇵🇱 nić

🇯🇵 糸 (いと)

🇫🇷 fil

🇪🇸 hilo

🇹🇷 iplik

🇰🇷 

🇸🇦 خيط

🇨🇿 vlákno

🇸🇰 niť

🇨🇳 线 (xiàn)

🇸🇮 nit

🇮🇸 þráður

🇰🇿 жіп

🇬🇪 ძაფი

🇦🇿 ip

🇲🇽 hilo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,836, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.