needlework

1 of 2

noun (1)

nee·​dle·​work ˈnē-dᵊl-ˌwərk How to pronounce needlework (audio)
Synonyms of needleworknext
1
: work done with a needle
especially : work (such as embroidery) other than plain sewing
2
: the occupation of one who does needlework
needleworker
ˈnē-dᵊl-ˌwər-kər How to pronounce needlework (audio)
noun

needleworker

2 of 2

noun (2)

: one that does needlework

Synonyms of needlework

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Noun (1)

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Examples of needlework in a Sentence

Noun (1) She showed us a sample of her needlework. She still enjoys doing needlework.
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Choose from hundreds of needlework designs at the shop's brick-and-mortar store or browse products online. — Alysa Guffey, IndyStar, 2 Dec. 2025 Needlepoint is a form of needlework in which yarn, typically wool, is stitched through a stiff open-weave canvas. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 23 Nov. 2025 Their relative newness to needlework hasn’t hindered business. — Julianna Chen, Dallas Morning News, 3 Feb. 2026 The history of needlework and women from prehistoric times onward is embedded in the scraps and pieces of fabric that have been preserved. — Cressida Leyshon, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for needlework

Word History

First Known Use

Noun (1)

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of needlework was in the 14th century

Rhymes for needlework

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Browse Nearby Words

needle wood
needlework
needleworker
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Cite this Entry

“Needlework.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/needlework. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

needlework

noun
nee·​dle·​work ˈnēd-ᵊl-ˌwərk How to pronounce needlework (audio)
: work done with a needle
especially : work (as embroidery) other than plain sewing

More from Merriam-Webster on needlework

Nglish: Translation of needlework for Spanish Speakers

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