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needlework

American  
[need-l-wurk] / ˈnid lˌwɜrk /

noun

  1. the art, process, or product of working with a needle, especially in embroidery, needlepoint, tapestry, quilting, and appliqué.

  2. the occupation or employment of a person skilled in embroidery, needlepoint, etc.


needlework British  
/ ˈniːdəlˌwɜːk /

noun

  1. work done with a needle, esp sewing and embroidery

  2. the result of such work

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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.

See Examples For:

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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