Definition

A small ball of yarn or thread, often used to help find a way out of a maze or labyrinth.

Example

She used a clew of thread to keep track of her path in the maze.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term clew?

I think so, isn’t it related to yarn or something?

Yeah, it’s actually a ball of thread, but it also has some mythological significance.

That's interesting! I didn't know it had such a cool background.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To raise the lower corners of a square sail using specific lines, or to roll something into a ball shape.

Example

The sailor clewed up the sail to prepare for the storm.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how they clew the sails during the race?

Yeah, it was impressive how quickly they did it!

I wonder if I could learn to clew sails like that someday.

Root Explanation

The word 'clew' originates from Old English 'clew', meaning a ball of thread or yarn. It is related to the Old Norse 'kleyfr', which also means a ball of thread. The term historically referred to a means of finding one's way, as in the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, where a clew was used to navigate the labyrinth.

Memory Tip

Imagine a ball of thread that helps you find your way out of a maze. This helps you remember that 'clew' refers to a guiding thread.

Visually Confused Words