Bead

/biːd/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A small, usually round piece of material such as glass, wood, or plastic, often used to make jewelry or decorative items.

She strung colorful beads onto the necklace to create a unique design.

A drop of a liquid, especially one that forms on a surface.

A bead of sweat rolled down his forehead during the intense workout.

A small, round mass that serves as a decorative element in various crafts or artworks.

The artist used beads to embellish the canvas, adding texture and color.

verb

To decorate or adorn with beads.

She beaded the fabric with intricate patterns for the costume.

Middle English 'bede', meaning 'prayer' or 'count' (related to the beads used in prayer).

bead of sweat

a small drop of sweat

to bead up

to form small round drops

rosary beads

a string of beads used for prayer

beading

The craft of making decorative items with beads.

beadwork

The art or craft of making designs and patterns with beads.

A small quantity of something, often referring to a drug.

He mentioned he had a bead of something special.

To focus intently on someone or something.

I had my bead on that opportunity all week.