needlepoint
/ˈniː.dl.pɔɪnt/ IELTSAcademic
noun
Needlepoint is a type of decorative sewing. It uses a needle and thread to make pictures or patterns on cloth or canvas.
- She learned needlepoint from her grandmother.
- The cushion has a delicate needlepoint design.
Adinary Nuance
Needlepoint is more specific than embroidery. Embroidery is the wider word for decorative stitching, while needlepoint usually means stitching on a stiff canvas with fine thread. If you say needlepoint, people often think of a traditional craft and detailed patterns.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- thêu tranh
- Spanish
- tapicería de aguja
- Chinese
- 针绣
- Japanese
- ニードルポイント
- Korean
- 니들포인트
Etymology
Needlepoint comes from the words needle and point. It has been used in English for decorative stitching since the 17th century.
Common phrases
needlepoint cushionneedlepoint designneedlepoint tapestry
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is needlepoint the same as embroidery?
- Not exactly. Embroidery is the broader term, and needlepoint is a specific kind of embroidery.
- Is needlepoint a common word in everyday English?
- People know it, but it is more common when talking about crafts or home decoration.
- Can I use needlepoint in business writing?
- Only if you are writing about crafts, textiles, or handmade products.