n. plural A defect in glass articles: same as string, 15.In electricity, to pass through and link with, as the lines of force of the magnetic S.—85 field of a D' Arsonval galvanometer pass through the suspended coil of the instrument.n. A twisted filament of a fibrous substance, as cotton, flax, silk, or wool, spun out to considerable length.n. A fine filament or thread-like body of any kind: as, a thread of spun glass; a thread of com-silk.n. The prominent spiral part of a screw. See cuts under screw and screw-thread.n. In mining, a thin seam, vein, or fissure filled with ore.n. A very slender line applied on a surface: thus, in decorative art, thin and minute lines are so called to distinguish them from bands of color, which, though narrow, have a more appreciable width.n. plural In conchology, the byssus.n. A yarn-measure, the circumference of a reel, containing 1½, 2, 2½, or 3 yards.n. That which runs through the whole course of something and connects its successive parts; hence, proper course or sequence; the main idea, thought, or purpose which runs through something: as, the thread of a discourse or story.n. A clue.n. Distinguishing property; quality; degree of fineness.n. The thread of life. See phrase below.n. A thin strip of gilded paper often used in Oriental brocaded stuffs.n. Erroneously, gold wire.n. See goldthread.To pass a thread through the eye or aperture of, as a needle.To string on a thread.To pass through with the carefulness and precision of one who is threading a needle, implying narrowness or intricacy in that which is passed through.To form a spiral projection on or a spiral groove in; furnish with a thread, as a screw: as, to thread a bolt.