What does thimble mean?
A thimble is a small protective cap worn on a finger during sewing, shielding the finger from accidental needle punctures. It is a familiar household and craft object, often associated with stitching, mending, and traditional needlework, although modern sewing tools may also include finger guards and other alternatives. The word has a second, specialized meaning in rigging: a metal cap or fitting that protects a rope or cable from wear and chafing. A thimble is also the source of the common word "thimbleful," meaning a very small quantity, as in a thimbleful of water. Its long history and combination of practical utility with a distinctly recognizable shape make it a useful example of how ordinary objects can become memorable parts of the vocabulary.
nounA thimble is a small protective cap worn on a finger while sewing, usually to protect the finger from the point of a needle. In rope rigging, the term also denotes a metal cap or fitting used to protect a rope or cable.
- A small cap worn on a finger to protect it from the needle while sewing.
- A metal cap or fitting used in rope rigging to protect a rope or cable where it is subject to wear or chafing.
"She slipped a thimble onto her finger before threading the needle."
"She slipped a thimble onto her finger before threading the needle."
"In the rigging, each rope end was fitted with a thimble to protect it from chafing."
Thimbles is the standard plural form. The related word "thimbleful" is a separate derived noun.
"The tailor kept several silver thimbles in a small velvet case."
A thimble turns a needle's tiny puncture into a safe, practiced motion.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does thimble come from?
The word comes through Middle English from Old English þymbl, a diminutive associated with Old English þum, meaning "thumb." The name reflects the thimble's association with the sewing finger and shares its origin with words such as thumb, thumbnail, and thumbprint. The modern spelling reflects the conventional English form of this inherited Germanic word.
Related word forms
How thimble is actually used
The sewing sense is common in everyday English. The rigging sense is specialized and technical. The expression "thimbleful" is an established word meaning a very small quantity, while "fit like a thimble" means to fit exactly or very snugly.