# knitting

/ˈnɪtɪŋ/ (US) · /nˈɪtɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/knitting
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. the activity

noun · CEFR A2

the hobby or work of making things like sweaters or scarves out of wool using needles.

For teachers: the process or craft of creating fabric by interlocking loops of yarn with needles.

- My grandmother taught me knitting when I was ten years old.
- Knitting has seen a resurgence in popularity among younger generations as a mindful and creative hobby.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the activity in general.

### 2. the item being made

noun · CEFR B1

the piece of clothing or fabric that you are currently making.

For teachers: the material or garment currently being produced through the act of knitting.

- She put her knitting down on the sofa to answer the door.
- He carried his knitting in a small canvas bag so he could work on the sleeve during his commute.

Usage: Can be used as a countable noun to refer to a specific project.

### 3. railway wires

noun · CEFR C2 · British English · Informal · Slang

the overhead electric wires that provide power to trains.

For teachers: a slang term for overhead line equipment (OHLE) used in railway electrification.

- The train was delayed because of a problem with the knitting.
- Engineers were called out overnight to repair a section of the knitting that had come down during the gale.

Teaching tip: This is highly specific to British railway enthusiasts and staff; most people will simply say 'overhead wires'.

## Examples

- She enjoys knitting warm sweaters for her grandchildren during the winter.
- He took his knitting on the train to pass the time during the long commute.
- While often viewed as a traditional domestic craft, knitting has seen a modern resurgence as a mindful activity that combines mathematical precision with tactile creativity.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.