A certain quantity of thread. Obsolete.

A measure of yarn of varying quantity: see quots.

A definite quantity of thread, yarn, etc., varying with the commodity, being a certain number of coils tied by a knot.

An amount of thread which can be conveniently used at one time with a needle; a length of thread enough for the purpose at hand. Also figurative.

A certain quantity of yarn; properly containing 120 rounds of the legal reel, and 91 inches long. (Scottish and English regional (northern).)

Nautical. A small machine used for making ropes and spun-yarn; †the quantity of yarn so made.

A certain quantity of yarn, etc. Now dialect.

A measure of yarn.

(See quot. 1730) Obsolete.

English regional (south-western). A package of yarn of a definite amount or weight. Sometimes spec. (see quots. 1888, 1888). Now rare.

A measure of linen or woollen yarn containing two cuts, ‘the sixth part of a hesp or hank of yarn, or the twenty-fourth part of a spyndle’ (Jamieson).

In the measurement of yarns: The number of hanks contained in a pound-weight. Also, the standard of fineness of yarn.