needle-case

needle-case

A seamstress keeps her needles in a small needle-case.

Definition

Noun: A small container, typically made of metal, wood, or fabric, used for holding and organizing needles, especially sewing needles.

Usage Examples
  • (A container specifically for storing sewing needles.)
  • (A historical container designed to protect and organize needles.)
Advanced Usage
  • "to put away the needle-case": to finish sewing or to conclude a needlework project.
    • After mending the tear, she put away the needle-case and thread. (She finished the sewing task and stored her tools.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Needle (n): a thin pointed piece of metal with a hole for thread, used in sewing.
    • The needle slipped through the fabric easily. (The sewing tool performed its function.)
  • Case (n): a container or covering for storing or protecting something.
    • The glasses case kept her spectacles safe in her bag. (A protective container.)
  • Needlework (n): the art or practice of sewing or embroidery.
    • She excelled at needlework, creating intricate patterns. (The craft involving needles.)
Synonyms
  • Sewing box: a box used to store sewing supplies, often including a needle-case.
    • Her sewing box contained thread, scissors, and a needle-case. (A larger container for sewing tools.)
  • Etui: a small ornamental case for holding needles or other small items.
    • The Victorian etui held needles and a thimble. (A decorative needle-case.)
Related Idioms
  • "a needle in a haystack": something extremely difficult to find.
    • Finding the right color thread in that messy needle-case was like looking for a needle in a haystack. (A metaphor for a challenging search.)
  • "on pins and needles": in a state of anxious suspense.
    • She was on pins and needles waiting for the sewing competition results. (An idiom describing nervous anticipation.)