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
Examples of needlework in a Sentence
She showed us a sample of her needlework.
She still enjoys doing needlework.
Recent Examples on the Web
The Sashiko Gals collective specializes in the traditional Japanese needlework technique of sashiko, which uses bold running stitches for reparative and decorative purposes.
—
Dave Smith, Fortune, 26 Sep. 2025
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
In Pakistan particularly, and South Asia as a whole, scores of craftswomen are engaged in age-old hand embroidery and needlework techniques which have kept a number of ancient crafts alive.
—Sonya Rehman, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025
But its origin may not be as surprising as its travels around Europe.
Homespun Genealogies in Colonial America (Smithsonian Magazine)
by Karin Wulf
Many people in colonial America cared a great deal about genealogy, keeping family records in books and needlework.
—The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 22 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for needlework
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Dave Smith, Fortune, 26 Sep. 2025
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
In Pakistan particularly, and South Asia as a whole, scores of craftswomen are engaged in age-old hand embroidery and needlework techniques which have kept a number of ancient crafts alive.
—Sonya Rehman, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025
But its origin may not be as surprising as its travels around Europe.
Homespun Genealogies in Colonial America (Smithsonian Magazine)
by Karin Wulf
Many people in colonial America cared a great deal about genealogy, keeping family records in books and needlework.
—The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 22 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for needlework
Cite this Entry
“Needlework.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/needlework. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
needlework
noun
nee·dle·work
ˈnēd-ᵊl-ˌwərk
: work done with a needle
especially
: work (as embroidery) other than plain sewing
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