knitting needle
Definition
Noun: A long, thin, straight rod, typically made of metal, wood, or plastic, with a point at one or both ends, used by hand to form loops of yarn in the process of creating knitted fabric.
Usage
A knitting needle is a tool used in the craft of knitting. It is used to hold and manipulate the active loops of yarn. They are often used in pairs, but multiple needles can be used for projects like socks.
Examples
- She carefully slid the stitches from one knitting needle to the other.
- For this pattern, you will need a pair of size 8 knitting needles.
- The wooden knitting needle was smooth and comfortable to hold.
Advanced Usage
- Double-pointed needles (DPNs): Short knitting needles with points at both ends, used in sets of four or five for knitting in the round, such as for sleeves or socks.
- She used a set of five double-pointed needles to knit the hat.
- Circular needle: Two short needle tips connected by a flexible cable, functioning as a pair of very long knitting needles that can hold a large number of stitches.
- For the blanket, a circular needle is essential to hold all the stitches.
Variants and Related Words
- Needle: A more general term for a thin, pointed tool. A knitting needle is a specific type of needle.
- Crochet hook: A similar tool used for the different craft of crochet, featuring a hook at one end instead of a point.
Synonyms
- Knitting pin (an older or less common term).
Notes
The term "knitting needle" refers specifically to the tool itself. The activity is called "knitting." They are distinct from sewing needles, which have an eye for thread and are used for a different purpose.
Noun
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needle consisting of a slender rod with pointed ends; usually used in pairs
