needlework

noun

nee·​dle·​work ˈnē-dᵊl-ˌwərk How to pronounce needlework (audio)
1
: work done with a needle
especially : work (such as embroidery) other than plain sewing
2
: the occupation of one who does needlework
needleworker noun

Examples of needlework in a Sentence

She showed us a sample of her needlework. She still enjoys doing needlework.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Treasures on display include a writing desk gifted to David Murray, 2nd Earl of Mansfield, by Marie Antoinette and needlework hangings by Mary Queen of Scots. Catherine Garcia, theweek, 31 Oct. 2024 Grandma Moses, who spent years crafting intricate embroidery, faced a point when arthritis made the delicate needlework too painful to continue. Committee Of 200, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024 Having been christened with the name Thomasine, Hall began living with an aunt in London at the age of twelve, and seems to have been trained in needlework. Rebecca Mead, The New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2024 The girls studied paper cutting alongside other crafts, such as embroidery and needlework. Julia Binswanger, Smithsonian Magazine, 17 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for needlework 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of needlework was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near needlework

Cite this Entry

“Needlework.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/needlework. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

needlework

noun
nee·​dle·​work ˈnēd-ᵊl-ˌwərk How to pronounce needlework (audio)
: work done with a needle
especially : work (as embroidery) other than plain sewing

More from Merriam-Webster on needlework

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!