needlework
Americannoun
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the art, process, or product of working with a needle, especially in embroidery, needlepoint, tapestry, quilting, and appliqué.
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the occupation or employment of a person skilled in embroidery, needlepoint, etc.
noun
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work done with a needle, esp sewing and embroidery
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the result of such work
Etymology
Origin of needlework
First recorded in 1350–1400, needlework is from Middle English nedle werk. See needle, work
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Artisans in white coats greeted guests at the Tod's fashion show in Milan Friday, crafting the Made in Italy leather and needlework items for which the company -- and country -- is renowned.
From Barron's ● Feb. 27, 2026
“The guitar was seen as a symbol of cultivation and sophistication, a sign of domestic achievement, like needlework or writing poetry,” Mr. Scala said.
From New York Times ● Apr. 25, 2023
One theory was that Russian Etsy sellers were pirating virtual patterns and reselling them, but designers instead attribute it to a rich tradition of needlework in the country.
From The Verge ● Mar. 28, 2022
Liz Tapper from Lenham Needlecraft, in Somerset, has been meticulously studying records to incorporate the delicate needlework for an Italian customer.
From BBC ● Feb. 19, 2022
Lula won prizes for her needlework, whereas mine was straggly and pitiful.
From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.