needlework

noun

nee·​dle·​work ˈnē-dᵊl-ˌwərk 

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 

noun

Synonyms

• embroidery

Examples of needlework in a Sentence

She showed us a sample of her needlework.

She still enjoys doing needlework.

Recent Examples on the Web

Treasures on display include a writing desk gifted to David Murray, 2nd Earl of Mansfield, by Marie Antoinette and needlework hangings by Mary Queen of Scots. —Catherine Garcia, theweek, 31 Oct. 2024

Grandma Moses, who spent years crafting intricate embroidery, faced a point when arthritis made the delicate needlework too painful to continue. —Committee Of 200, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024

Having been christened with the name Thomasine, Hall began living with an aunt in London at the age of twelve, and seems to have been trained in needlework. —Rebecca Mead, The New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2024

The girls studied paper cutting alongside other crafts, such as embroidery and needlework. —Julia Binswanger, Smithsonian Magazine, 17 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

needlework

noun

nee·​dle·​work ˈnēd-ᵊl-ˌwərk 

: work done with a needle

especially : work (as embroidery) other than plain sewing