pick up the threads

phrase

informal

: to begin something again after a long time

I'm hoping to pick up the threads of our relationship.

Cite this Entry

Style

“Pick up the threads.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pick%20up%20the%20threads. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

Copy Citation

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

pick up the threads

phrase

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

hector

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

Was 'nervous Nellie' a Real Person?

Why do we call it a 'flea market'?

17 Words for Dog Breeds

Birds Say the Darndest Things

Even More Bird Names that Sound Like Insults (and Sometimes Are)

Popular

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

Was 'nervous Nellie' a Real Person?

Why do we call it a 'flea market'?

Games & Quizzes