King James Bible Dictionary

Used only in the proverb, "to pass through a needle's eye" (Matthew 19:24; Mark 10:25; Luke 18:25). Some interpret the expression as referring to the side gate, close to the principal gate, usually called the "eye of a needle" in the East; but it is rather to be taken literally. The Hebrew females were skilled in the use of the needle (Exodus 28:39; 26:36; Judges 5:30).

Matthew 19:24; Mark 10:25; Luke 18:25

NEEDLE, noun [G. something sharp or pointed. It may be allied to nettle.]

1. A small instrument of steel pointed at one end, with an eye at the other to receive a thread; used in sewing and embroidery. Needles are also used by surgeons in sewing up wounds.

2. A small pointed piece of steel used in the mariners compass, which by its magnetic quality is attracted and directed to the pole, and thus enables navigators to steer their ships the course intended.

3. Any crystalized substance in the form of a needle

Dipping needle a magnetic needle that dips or inclines downwards.

NEEDLE, verb transitive To form crystals in the shape of a needle

NEEDLE, verb intransitive To shoot in crystalization into the form of needles; as needled prisms.

NEEDLE-FISH, noun A fish of the genus Syngnathus. The middle of the body is hexangular. Also, the sea-urchin.

NEEDLEFUL, noun As much thread as is put at once in a needle.

NEEDLE-MAKER, noun One who manufactures needles.

NEEDLE-ORE, noun Acicular bismuth glance.

NEEDLER, noun One who manufactures needles.

NEEDLE-SHELL, noun The sea-urchin.

NEEDLESS, adjective

1. Not wanted; unnecessary; not requisite; as needless labor; needless expenses.

2. Not wanting.

NEEDLESSLY, adverb Without necessity.

NEEDLESSNESS, noun Unnecessariness.

NEEDLE-STONE, noun A mineral of the zeolite family.

See Embroidery
Embroidery

NEEDLEWORK, noun Work executed with a needle; or the business of a seamstress. It is used particularly for embroidery.

NEEDLE-ZEOLITE, noun A species of zeolite of a grayish white color.