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thimble

thimble

5 4.2
A small metal or plastic cap worn on a finger to protect it when sewing
  • noun
  • /ˈθɪmbl/
translation icon : dedal
  • She used a thimble to protect her finger while sewing the delicate fabric.

Examples

  • You don't need anything fancy, just fabric, thread and perhaps a thimble to save your fingers.

  • Aunt Vivienne bought Mother a little silver locket and a new thimble.

    Fiction book (2002)
  • We beg you to accept this elegant thimble.

  • Maybe one of you guys should stop by sewing class tomorrow... ...and pick up a thimble.

  • Girls in the third grade received thimbles.

  • Young Man (examining the shelves): Thimbles, threads, ladies' needlework, white gloves.

    Fiction book (1998)
  • The sewing kit included a thimble to help avoid poking her finger with the needle.

  • He always kept a thimble handy to make stitching more comfortable and safe.

Synonyms

ditalini
vsthimble
9.7

A small metal cap that protects your finger while sewing

also serves as a small container besides protective use

Compounds

9.9

A person very skilled at sewing and making clothes

How Small

thimble
5 4.2
button
203 1.0
shot glass
13 1.8
cup
846 1.0
bowl
370 1.0

Surface Forms

thimble singular
thimbles plural

Etymology

Thimble comes from an old word meaning 'little thumb' and is related to thumb, because early thimbles were small caps worn on the finger. That's why a thimble protects your fingertip when you push a needle.