Threads: meaning, definitions and examples

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threads

 

[ θrɛdz ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

sewing

Long, thin strands of cotton, nylon, or other materials used in sewing or weaving.

Synonyms

fiber, string, yarn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
threads

Threads are commonly used to refer to thin strands of material, often used in sewing or weaving. They can also refer to a series of messages or posts on an online platform.

  • She used red threads to sew the button back on.
  • The discussion continued across multiple threads on the forum.
yarn

Yarn is a long continuous length of interlocked fibers, suitable for use in the production of textiles, knitting, and weaving. It can also informally mean a long or rambly story.

  • She bought some blue yarn for knitting a scarf.
  • He told us a yarn about his adventures in the mountains.
string

String usually refers to a thin piece of cord or a length of thread, often used to tie, bind, or hang objects. It can also be used in a more abstract sense to refer to a series of related things.

  • He used a piece of string to tie the package.
  • The project requires a string of successful experiments.
fiber

Fiber typically refers to a thread or filament that comes from either a natural or synthetic origin. It is often used when talking about the materials that make up fabrics or textiles, as well as in a dietary context.

  • The shirt is made of natural cotton fiber.
  • Eating enough fiber is essential for good digestion.

Examples of usage

  • She used blue threads to sew the buttons on the shirt.
  • The threads in this fabric are very strong and durable.
Context #2 | Noun

online discussions

A series of connected messages or comments on a social media platform or forum, usually organized around a specific topic.

Synonyms

conversation, discussion, post.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
threads

This term is commonly used in online forums or discussion platforms. It refers to a series of messages or posts that are linked together under a common topic or theme.

  • The forum has many interesting threads about technology innovations.
discussion

This term indicates a more formal or structured exchange of ideas, opinions, or information, often in academic, professional, or organized settings. It can be slightly more serious or in-depth than a conversation.

  • The panel had a lively discussion about climate change policies.
conversation

This term is used to describe an informal exchange of thoughts, questions, or information between two or more people. It can happen in-person, over the phone, or through digital messaging.

  • She had a thoughtful conversation with her colleague about their project.
post

This term is used in the context of social media, blogs, or online forums. It refers to a message, image, or piece of content that someone shares on a platform for others to see.

  • She shared a post about her recent travels on Instagram.

Examples of usage

  • The thread about the new movie has over 1000 comments already.
  • I started a thread asking for book recommendations.
Context #3 | Verb

sewing

To pass a thread through the eye of a needle or through fabric in sewing.

Synonyms

embroider, sew, stitch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
threads

Generally used to refer to individual fibers that are twisted together to make up a string or piece of cloth. Can also be used metaphorically to talk about a series of connected thoughts or discussions.

  • She broke the threads while sewing the button
  • The forum had many interesting threads on technology
sew

Refers to the basic act of stitching fabric together with a needle and thread. It can be used in everyday contexts when discussing clothes, repairs, or creating items from fabric.

  • She learned how to sew her own dresses
  • He needs to sew up the tear in his pants
stitch

Usually implies the individual action of making one loop or pass with a needle in sewing or embroidery. Also used in medical contexts to describe the suturing of wounds. It can have a slight negative connotation if referring to pain, like a 'stitch' in the side.

  • You need to make tiny stitches to achieve this pattern
  • The doctor had to stitch the wound on his leg
  • She got a stitch in her side from running too fast
embroider

To decorate fabric or other materials with needle and thread, often to create intricate and beautiful designs. This word can also be used metaphorically to mean adding extra, possibly exaggerated details to a story.

  • She loves to embroider flowers on her denim jacket
  • He tends to embroider his tales to make them more exciting

Examples of usage

  • She threaded the needle carefully before starting to sew.
  • Make sure to thread the machine properly to avoid any issues.

Translations

Translations of the word "threads" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fios

🇮🇳 धागे

🇩🇪 Fäden

🇮🇩 benang

🇺🇦 нитки

🇵🇱 nici

🇯🇵 スレッド

🇫🇷 fils

🇪🇸 hilos

🇹🇷 iplikler

🇰🇷 

🇸🇦 خيوط

🇨🇿 vlákna

🇸🇰 vlákna

🇨🇳 线

🇸🇮 nitke

🇮🇸 þræðir

🇰🇿 жіптер

🇬🇪 ძაფები

🇦🇿 ipliklər

🇲🇽 hilos

Etymology

The word 'threads' has its origins in Old English 'thrǣd', which is related to Dutch 'draad' and German 'Draht'. Threads have been essential in human history for sewing clothing, weaving textiles, and creating intricate designs. With the rise of social media, the term 'threads' also took on a new meaning to refer to connected discussions or comments on various online platforms.

See also: multithreading, thread, threadbare, threading.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,893 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.