needlepoint

[ need-l-point ]

noun

1. embroidery upon canvas, usually with uniform spacing of stitches in a pattern.

adjective

1. done or executed in needlepoint:

   a needlepoint cushion.

2. noting a lace needlepoint lace in which a needle works out the design upon parchment or paper.

verb (used with or without object)

1. to execute or create in needlepoint:

   to needlepoint an evening bag; to needlepoint as a hobby.

needlepoint

/ ˈniːdəlˌpɔɪnt /

noun

1. embroidery done on canvas with the same stitch throughout so as to resemble tapestry
2. another name for point lace

Other Words From

• needle·pointer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of needlepoint¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; needle + point

Example Sentences

Her needlepoint pillow said, “Nouveau is better than not Riche at all.”

From Los Angeles Times

During an art residency last year in a former castle in the Umbrian countryside, the textile artist Liz Collins sat in her temporary studio stitching a needlepoint.

From New York Times

She gave the actor a “beautiful needlepoint pillow” and they’ve spoken over the phone about their favorite cop shows.

From Seattle Times

The always provocative, usually salacious Sal Salandra devotes one half of his needlepoint, “What’s With the Smile Mona?” to an exquisite rendition of Leonardo’s masterpiece, depicted on the easel in the master’s messy studio.

From New York Times

The two also became business partners, opening a needlepoint shop on the Upper East Side called 2 Needles.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• brocade
• decoration
• lace
• quilting
• tapestry