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.
The richness of detail and the delicacy of the needlework are as compelling as the fury of the story and the scale of its stakes.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 26, 2026
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
Mary Davies, 84, from Downham Market in Norfolk, has dry AMD and can no longer drive or teach macramé - a needlework craft.
From BBC ● Sep. 13, 2023
Does she enjoy music, theater, fantasy sports, needlework, museums, astronomy?
From Washington Post ● Apr. 2, 2023
Everything I knew about it I had overheard over the years in San Francisco, when she talked with the aunties who visited on occasion to do needlework and drink tea.
From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu
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Get a wordDefinitions 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.