Yarn: meaning, definitions and examples

Used primarily to refer to long, continuous lengths of interlocked fibers suitable for use in knitting, weaving, or sewing.

• She bought some colorful yarn to knit a scarf.
• The shop sells a variety of yarns for different projects.

Used to specifically refer to a thin strand of twisted fibers used in sewing and sometimes in creating detailed embroidery.

• I need some white thread to mend my shirt.
• The embroiderer used gold thread to highlight the design.

Best for referring to the basic raw material threads from which yarns and textiles are made, often used in a broader scientific or nutritional context.

• Cotton is a commonly used natural fiber.
• Dietary fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system.

Specifically used to describe fibers obtained from the fleece of sheep and certain other animals, often associated with warmth and winter clothing.

• She prefers knitting sweaters with wool because it is warm.
• The market sold various types of wool for knitting.

Used when referring to a long, elaborate, and often exaggerated story, usually entertaining and with elements of fiction.

• He spun a wild yarn about his adventures in the mountains.
• Grandpa always had a new yarn to tell us every night.

Often used for short, fictional stories, especially those with moral lessons, myths, or folklore elements.

• He told a fairy tale to the kids.
• The old woman shared an eerie tale from her youth.

The most general term for any recounting of events, whether true or fictional, suitable for all contexts.

• She told a charming story about how they met.
• The children were eager to hear a bedtime story.

More formal term for any structured story, often used in literature, academic discussions, or when referring to a broader sequence of events.

• The narrative of the novel was quite complex.
• Her narrative on the historical event deeply engaged the audience.

Used for telling long, often imaginative or colorful stories, usually in an informal setting.

• We stayed up all night spinning yarns about our childhood adventures

Suitable for casual, light-hearted, and informal conversations, often between friends or in social situations.

• Let's have a chat over coffee tomorrow
• They were chatting about their weekend plans

Appropriate for more formal or meaningful discussions, often involving thoughtful exchange of ideas.

• The professors conversed about the implications of the new study
• We need to converse about the upcoming project

Typically used when discussing the private affairs of others, often with a negative connotation, and usually in an informal or private setting.

• They were gossiping about their coworkers' personal lives
• I don't like to gossip, but did you hear about Sarah's new boyfriend?