thread

²thread

verb

Definition of THREAD

transitive verb

1

a : to pass a thread through the eye of (a needle) b : to arrange a thread, yarn, or lead-in piece in working position for use in (a machine)

2

a (1) : to pass something through in the manner of a thread <thread a pipe with wire> (2) : to pass (as a tape, line, or film) into or through something <threaded a fresh roll of film into the camera> b : to make one's way through or between <threading narrow alleys>; also : to make one's way usually cautiously through a hazardous situation

3

: to put together on or as if on a thread : string <thread beads>

4

: to interweave with or as if with threads : intersperse <dark hair threaded with silver>

5

: to form a screw thread on or in

intransitive verb

1

: weave 2 <the car threaded through traffic>

2

: to form a thread

— thread·er noun

Examples of THREAD

1. She threaded her shoelace through the holes.
2. thread film through a camera
3. They had to thread their way through the crowd.
4. Waiters threaded through the crowd.
5. a river that threads through narrow valleys

First Known Use of THREAD

14th century

Related to THREAD

Synonyms: interlace, intersperse, interweave, lace, salt, weave, wreathe

Related Words: insert, intermingle, mingle, mix; alternate, juxtapose; amalgamate, assimilate, blend, combine, commingle, embody, fuse, incorporate, integrate, merge

see all synonyms and antonyms

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