bodkin

[ bod-kin ]

noun

1. a small, pointed instrument for making holes in cloth, leather, etc.
2. a long pinshaped instrument used by women to fasten up the hair.
3. a blunt, needlelike instrument for drawing tape, cord, etc., through a loop, hem, or the like.
4. Obsolete. a small dagger; stiletto.

bodkin

/ ˈbɒdkɪn /

noun

1. a blunt large-eyed needle used esp for drawing tape through openwork
2. archaic.
   a dagger
3. printing a pointed steel tool used for extracting characters when correcting metal type
4. archaic.
   a long ornamental hairpin

Word History and Origins

Origin of bodkin¹

1350–1400; Middle English badeken, bo ( i ) dekyn, of uncertain origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of bodkin¹

C14: probably of Celtic origin; compare Gaelic biodag dagger

Example Sentences

Next from the large casket Mrs. Sin took another smaller casket and a very long, tapering silver bodkin.

From Project Gutenberg

He calmly inserted the bodkin in the second cake; seemed to meet with some obstruction, and laid the ball down upon the counter.

From Project Gutenberg

Christopher Bodkin of Tuam may, from his character, have conformed insincerely, but this is not proved.

From Project Gutenberg

But I must not say more even to you, dear Mrs. Bodkin, for these are State secrets, which should be sacredly respected.

From Project Gutenberg

We have already been present at more than one social gathering at Dr. Bodkin's house.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• bayonet
• blade
• sword