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.

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needlework British  

/ ˈniːdəlˌwɜːk /

noun

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

2. the result of such work

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Etymology

Origin of needlework

First recorded in 1350–1400, needlework is from Middle English nedle werk. See needle, work

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

needlework

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

The consistent payoff in Elliott’s production, staged with a pleasingly intentional informality on the Linney Theatre stage at Pershing Square Signature Center, is the care with which Bradshaw sews his own perceptions into Chekhov’s needlework.

From Washington Post ● Mar. 10, 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

In addition to the regular school sessions and the recreation program, classes of every kind were being offered all over camp: singing, acting, trumpet playing, tap-dancing, plus traditional Japanese arts like needlework, judo, and kendo.

From "Farewell to Manzanar" by Jeanne Houston