shoe-thread
Definition
Noun: - Sewing material for footwear: "shoe-thread" refers to a strong, durable thread specifically used for stitching shoes or boots, typically made of materials like waxed linen, nylon, or polyester to withstand wear and tension.
Usage Examples
- (A strong thread for mending footwear.)
- (The thread used in shoemaking.)
Advanced Usage
"to match the shoe-thread": to use thread that is colour-coordinated or strength-appropriate for a particular shoe.
- He carefully matched the shoe-thread to the original stitching on the leather. (Ensuring the thread fit the material and colour.)
"to break the shoe-thread": to snap the thread while sewing, often due to excessive tension.
- The shoe-thread broke under the pressure of the thick leather. (The thread failed during stitching.)
Variants and Related Words
- Shoemaker's thread (n): a synonym for shoe-thread, often used in traditional cobbling.
- The shoemaker's thread was waxed to prevent fraying. (A specialized thread for footwear.)
- Thread (n): a general term for a thin strand of fibre, but shoe-thread is a specific subtype.
- The shoe-thread is thicker than regular sewing thread. (A comparative description.)
Synonyms
- Cobbler's thread: thread used by a shoemaker.
- Boot thread: thread designed for heavy-duty footwear stitching.
Related Idioms
- "Stitch in time saves nine": while not directly about shoe-thread, this idiom relates to timely repairs, often used in shoemaking contexts.
- Using good shoe-thread for a quick repair can prevent a larger problem. (Proactive maintenance.)
Phrasal Verbs
Thread through: to pass the shoe-thread through a needle or hole.
- He had to thread through the eye of the needle with the thick shoe-thread. (The action of inserting the thread.)
Pull tight: to draw the shoe-thread firmly after stitching.
- She pulled the shoe-thread tight to close the seam securely. (Tensioning the thread.)