Yarn Meaning and Definition
Yarn
Pronunciation
/yɑrn/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A long, thin, twisted strand of fibers, especially of cotton, wool, or other natural materials, used for knitting or weaving.
Examples
- The knitter spent hours unraveling the yarn to make a new scarf.
- The yarn shop offered a wide range of colors and textures.
Synonyms
- Fiber
- Cord
Antonyms
- Rope
- Cable
Etymology
The word “yarn” comes from Old English “gern” or “gierne”, meaning “thread” or “string”, and has been used in English since the 14th century.
Usage Notes
In addition to referring to the physical material, the word “yarn” can also be used as a metaphor for a story or anecdote.
Cultural References
Yarns have appeared in various forms of media, such as literature, film, and television, often as a source of entertainment or storytelling.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“To spin a yarn” means to tell a tall tale or exaggerate, while “to unwind a yarn” means to unravel or untangle.
Related Words or Phrases
- Fiber
- Cotton
- Wool
Collocations
- Yarn and needle
- Yarn shop
Frequency of Use
Yarn is a common word in everyday language, used in both formal and informal contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Yern
- Garn