# spindle

/ˈspɪndəɫ/ (US) · /spˈɪndəl/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spindle
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a thin rod or pin that turns around to hold something, like thread on a sewing machine or a spinning disk.

For teachers: a slender, tapered rod or pin that rotates to twist and wind thread, or serves as an axis for a revolving part.

## Examples

- The thread winds around the wooden spindle.
- In the factory, the high-speed spindle rotates thousands of times per minute to ensure the metal is cut precisely.
- During cell division, the mitotic spindle forms a structure of microtubules that orchestrates the accurate segregation of chromosomes into daughter cells.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in mechanical, textile, and biological contexts to describe any rotating axis.

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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.