Yarn

yarn

/ jɑːrn /

Noun (Also used informally as a verb in some contexts)

Meaning

Yarn refers to a long, continuous strand of fibers that is spun or twisted together, commonly used for knitting, weaving, crocheting, and textile production.
In informal usage, yarn also means a long, entertaining, or exaggerated story.

Examples

She bought soft cotton yarn to knit a winter scarf.
Wool yarn is widely used in making sweaters and blankets.
The fisherman told a humorous yarn about his biggest catch.
This factory produces high-quality synthetic yarn for textiles.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms	Antonyms
Thread Fiber Strand Filament Twine Tale	Fabric Cloth Textile

Word Forms

Yarns (plural noun)
Yarning (verb, informal)
Yarned (past tense, informal usage)

Origin / Etymology

The word yarn originates from the Old English gearn, meaning thread or twine. It is related to Old Norse garn and German Garn, all referring to spun fiber or thread, reflecting its deep roots in early textile traditions.

Grammar Information

Countable noun when referring to individual strands or balls of yarn.
Can function as a mass noun in textile manufacturing contexts.
Informally used as a verb meaning to tell a story.

Translations

Hindi: सूत (Soot), धागा (Dhaga)
Spanish: Hilo
French: Fil
German: Garn
Chinese (Simplified): 纱线
Arabic: خيط

Idioms & Phrases

Spin a yarn – to tell a long or imaginative story
Tell a yarn – to narrate an entertaining tale
A tall yarn – an exaggerated or unbelievable story