bodkin

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a blunt, large-eyed needle used to pull cord or ribbon through a hem or casing

   She threaded the elastic through the waistband with a bodkin.

2. 2
   noun

   a small pointed tool used to pierce cloth, leather, or paper

   The bookbinder opened each sewing hole with a steel bodkin.

3. 3
   noun

   archaic: a slender dagger

   In the old tragedy, the prince considered ending his life with a bare bodkin.

4. 4
   noun

   historical: a long hairpin

   She secured the coil of hair with a silver bodkin.

From Middle English boydekin, originally 'dagger'; its deeper origin is uncertain. The diminutive-looking -kin ending accompanied later extensions to pointed tools, needles, and hairpins.

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