Meaning & Definition of word "Skein"

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    Skein

    /skeɪn/

    noun:

    • 1. A length of yarn or thread wound in a loose coil.
      • Example: She purchased a bright blue skein of yarn to knit a scarf.
    • 2. A flock of wild geese or a similar bird in flight.
      • Example: We spotted a skein of geese flying south for the winter.
    • 3. A complex or tangled situation or series of events.
      • Example: The story was a skein of intrigue and betrayal that kept us on the edge of our seats.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from Old French 'escaigne', of unknown origin.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    skein of yarn:

    A loose coil of thread used for knitting or crocheting.

    skein of deceit:

    A complex web of lies and trickery.

    skein of geese:

    A group of geese flying together.

    Related Words

    thread:

    A thin strand of cotton, wool, or other fibers.

    yarn:

    A continuous length of interlocked fibers, used for knitting or weaving.

    coil:

    A loop or series of loops of a flexible material.

    Slang Meanings of skein

    Meaning: A complicated situation or mess.

    Example Sentence: That project turned into a real skein when everyone started arguing.

    Meaning: To spin a story or create a narrative twist.

    Example Sentence: She skeined that tale so well, I almost believed it.