thread
/θɾ̪̊ɛd/ · thread
noun
- A long, thin and flexible form of material, generally with a round cross-section, used in sewing, weaving or in the construction of string. She carefully threaded the needle with a length of silk thread.
- A continued theme or idea. All of these essays have a common thread of exploring the impact of technology on society.
- A screw thread. The engineer studied the thread on the bolt to determine the correct fit for the nut.
verb
- To put thread through. She threaded the needle with a length of yarn.
- To pass (through a narrow constriction or around a series of obstacles). I think I can thread my way through here, but it’s going to be tight.
- To screw on, to fit the threads of a nut on a bolt. He threaded the nut onto the bolt and tightened it firmly.
Synonyms
Did you know? The word 'thread' has been used in various contexts, including in the title of James Joyce's novel 'Ulysses', where the protagonist, Leopold Bloom, reflects on the common thread of human experience.