Needle
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /ˈniː.dəl/ · Part of speech noun
Quick meaning: Needle is a noun meaning Any slender, pointed object resembling a needle, such as a pointed crystal, a sharp pinnacle of rock, an obelisk, etc.
Meaning
Any slender, pointed object resembling a needle, such as a pointed crystal, a sharp pinnacle of rock, an obelisk, etc.
More Meanings
- A fine measurement indicator on a dial or graph.
- (informal) A sensor for playing phonograph records, a phonograph stylus.
- A needle-like leaf found on some conifers.
- A strong beam resting on props, used as a temporary support during building repairs.
- (informal, usually preceded by the) The death penalty carried out by lethal injection.
- (programming) A text string that is searched for within another string. (see: needle in a haystack)
- A long, thin, sharp implement usually for piercing as in sewing, embroidery, acupuncture, tattooing, body piercing, medical injections, sutures, etc; or a blunt but otherwise similar implement used for forming loops or knots in crafts such as darning, knitting, tatting, etc.
Example Sentences
reusable needles
a compass needle
single-use needles
The needle on the fuel gauge pointed to empty.
Word Forms
- needles
- needling
- needled
Synonyms for needle
Depending on context, synonyms include neele, goad, tease, nettle.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include goad, nettle, needlework, pin, stocking, sheath.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.