What does purl mean?
Purl is a needlework word with two closely related uses. As a noun, it names a small ornamental loop or edging made in lace, braid, or similar material. In knitting, it also refers to the reverse of the knit stitch and to the action of working that stitch to form rows of raised ridges. As a verb, purl means to knit with this reverse stitch; instructions may say “purl one row” or “purl across.” Older usage also covers decorating fabric with an ornamental looped border, giving the word a slightly literary or traditional flavor when used outside modern craft instruction. Purl is especially useful to readers following knitting patterns, where the distinction between knit and purl determines both texture and appearance. Though its spelling can be mistaken for pull, the two words belong to different domains: pull concerns drawing or removing something, while purl concerns loops, edges, and stitches.
An ornamental looped edging, as of lace or braid; in knitting, a reverse stitch used to form raised ridges.
"The jeweler set tiny gold purls along the edge of the miniature frame."
In modern knitting instructions, purl commonly refers to the reverse stitch and to the action of working it.
To knit with a purl stitch; in older usage, to decorate with a looped edging.
"Purl the final two rows to give the scarf a firm, ridged border."
The verb is common in knitting patterns and instructional prose.
Used for countable ornamental loops or separate looped edgings.
"The gown was decorated with rows of delicate silver purls."
One familiar stitch, worked backwards, gives purl its characteristic ridges.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does purl come from?
Purl entered Middle English as purle or purl through Old French pourpre, meaning “purple.” That word ultimately derives from Latin purpura, the ancient name associated with the purple dye and the mollusc from which it was obtained. The English word became associated with ornamental work and developed into the modern needlework senses for looped edging and purl stitching.
Related word forms
How purl is actually used
Purl is especially familiar from knitting instructions and needlework. Its older sense of decorating fabric with an ornamental border may sound literary or dated.
Easily confused with purl
A pull is an act of drawing or removing something, whereas a purl is a looped edging or a reverse knitting stitch.