The Surprising Origins of the Word "Skein"

If you're a knitter, crocheter, or fiber artist, you've probably handled countless skeins of yarn—but have you ever wondered where the word skein comes from? It turns out, the history of this common term is tangled up in fascinating linguistic roots.

The word skein dates back to Middle English, derived from the Old French escaigne, which referred to a hank of yarn or thread. Some historians believe it may have even earlier origins in Old Norse or Germanic languages, where similar words were used to describe things that twist or coil. This makes sense, as a skein is essentially yarn that has been wound into a long, loose coil.

Interestingly, skein has also been used to describe flocks of flying geese or swans in V-shaped formations! The connection? Some speculate it comes from the way geese weave and shift positions in flight, much like strands of yarn interweaving in a twisted bundle. Others suggest it might be because a skein of yarn, when untwisted, spreads out in a shape similar to a flock of birds in motion.

So next time you pick up a skein of yarn, you're not just holding fiber—you’re holding a word with a rich and twisting history.

Do you have a favorite fiber-related word with an interesting backstory? Share it in the comments!

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