Loom

Definition

To appear or come into view in an enlarged, distorted, or indistinct form.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /luːm/
• Respelling: LOOM (with "LOOM" as in "room")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /luːm/
• Respelling: LOOM (with "LOOM" as in "room")

In both dialects, "loom" places the primary stress on the entire word, "LOOM." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "LOOM."

Etymology

Originating from the Old Norse lúmr meaning "odd, strange", the term "loom" has evolved over the years. Its sense as a weaving tool is from Middle English, related to the verb "to loom" as to appear large or threatening, reflecting the looming motion of the shuttle on a loom.

Derivatives

• Looming
• Loomer
• Outloom
• Overloom
• Loomingly

Synonyms

• Tower
• Emerge
• Hover

Antonyms

• Shrink
• Recede
• Retreat

Usage

Loom is widely used in both literal and figurative contexts, describing both the tool used in textile production and the act of appearing in a certain manner.

• Dark clouds loomed on the horizon.
• The old castle looms over the village.

Related Terms

• Weave
• Shuttle
• Textile
• Warp
• Woof

Detailed Definition

Verb:

• Loom (Verb): To appear as a large, often frightening or unclear form.
  • Example: "The mountains loomed in the distance, shrouded in mist."

• Loom (Verb): To appear important or threatening and likely to happen soon.
  • Example: "With the deadline looming, they worked late into the night."

Noun

• Loom (Noun): A device used to weave cloth and tapestry by interlacing threads.
  
  • Example: "She spent hours at the loom creating a beautiful tapestry."