bodkin

noun

bod·kin | \ ˈbäd-kən

\

Definition of bodkin

1a : dagger, stiletto

b : a sharp slender instrument for making holes in cloth

c : an ornamental hairpin shaped like a stiletto

2 : a blunt needle with a large eye for drawing tape or ribbon through a loop or hem

Examples of bodkin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Punishment for cursing or disparaging a clergyman was having a bodkin — a large needle — driven through the tongue. — Michael E. Ruane, Washington Post, "Experts have uncovered remains at America’s first permanent colony. But whose bones are they?," 27 Oct. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'bodkin.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Keep scrolling for more

Learn More about bodkin

Dictionary Entries near bodkin

Statistics for bodkin

Look-up Popularity

Time Traveler for bodkin

The first known use of bodkin was in the 14th century

See more words from the same century

WORD OF THE DAY

atone

to make amends

Test Your Vocabulary

Musical Words Quiz

Which word describes a musical performance marked by the absence of instrumental accompaniment?

How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!

TAKE THE QUIZ

SCRABBLE® Sprint

Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games