loom etymology

Etymology

The word "loom" derives from the Old English word "gelōma," meaning "tool, implement." This term is thought to be cognate with the Proto-Germanic word "gelamō," which also means "tool."

Meaning and Origin

A loom is a device used to weave fabric. It is a frame that holds the warp threads (the longitudinal threads) in place while the weft threads (the transverse threads) are passed through them.

The earliest looms were simple frames made of wood or bone. Over time, looms became more complex, with the invention of the fly shuttle in the 18th century being a major breakthrough. This device allowed for the weft threads to be passed through the warp threads much more quickly, increasing the efficiency of weaving.

Today, looms are used to produce a wide variety of fabrics, from cotton and linen to silk and wool. There are many different types of looms, each designed for a specific type of fabric or purpose.

Additional Notes

The word "loom" has also come to be used figuratively to refer to a scheme or plot. This usage likely derives from the idea of a loom being used to create something complex and intricate.

loom relate terms

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  • hand

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  • loom

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  • tower

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  • ravel

    Etymology The word ravel derives from the Middle English word ravelen which in turn

  • tacky

    Etymology The word tacky is derived from the Dutch word takig which means sticky

  • order

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  • brood

    Etymology The word brood comes from the Middle English word brod which is derived fr

  • look

    Etymology Old English lōcian to see Proto West Germanic lōkijanan Proto Germanic

  • weave

    Etymology Middle English weven from Old English wefan of Germanic origin related to