Spindle Meaning and Definition
Spindle
Pronunciation
/ˈspɪndəl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A long, thin, cylindrical object used for spinning fibers, typically made of wood, metal, or plastic.
Examples
- The weaver used a spindle to spin the wool into yarn.
- The ancient civilization used spindles to create fine textiles.
Synonyms
- Spinning disk
- Flyer
Antonyms
- Cutter
- Shredder
Etymology
The word “Spindle” comes from the Latin word “spinere”, meaning “to spin”, and is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “spiniz”, also meaning “to spin”.
Additional Information
Spindles have been used for thousands of years to spin fibers into yarn. They are used in a variety of industries, including textiles, manufacturing, and crafts. Modern spindles are often made of materials such as aluminum, carbon fiber, and wood, and are designed for specific tasks, such as spinning wool or silk.
Usage Notes
When using the word “Spindle”, it is essential to specify the context in which it is being used, as different industries and cultures may have different meanings and connotations. For example, in the textile industry, a spindle refers to a tool used to spin fibers, while in everyday conversation, it may refer to a long, thin object.
Cultural References
The word “Spindle” has appeared in various cultural references, including literature, art, and film. For example, in the novel “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood, the protagonist Offred learns to use a spindle to spin yarn, symbolizing her connection to the past and her resistance to the oppressive regime.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “To spindle and spin” means to waste time or talk idly.
Related Words or Phrases
- Flyer
- Spinning wheel
Collocations
- Wooden spindle
- Hand spindle
Frequency of Use
The word “Spindle” is relatively rare in everyday conversation, but it appears frequently in industrial and technical contexts, particularly in the textile and manufacturing industries.
Common Misspellings
- Spinden
- Spinde