Navette refers to a small, oblong-shaped shuttle or shuttlecock-like object that is used in various contexts. In general, a navette is designed for swift and efficient movement or transportation between two points, often in a back-and-forth motion. The term navette has different interpretations depending on the field of usage.
In the context of textiles and fabrics, a navette is a type of shuttle used in weaving. It is a small, narrow tool, often made of wood or plastic, with a pointed end and a rounded base. It is used to carry the weft thread across the loom, enabling the interlacing of the warp and weft yarns in the weaving process.
In jewelry-making, a navette refers to a specific shape that resembles a small boat or an elongated oval. It is characterized by pointed ends and a curved middle, resembling the hull of a boat. This shape is commonly used for gemstone settings or as an element in various jewelry designs.
Navette can also refer to a type of glass or crystal bead. These beads have a similar shape to the jewelry-making navette, featuring pointed ends and a curved middle. They are often used in beadwork, particularly in embroidery and bead weaving.
Additionally, navette is used in the context of transportation to describe a shuttle service, typically between two fixed points. This term is commonly used in the hospitality industry to refer to a shuttle bus or van that transports individuals between locations, such as an airport and a hotel.
Overall, the definition of navette highlights its various applications, including its role in weaving, jewelry-making, beadwork, and transportation.
The word "navette" has its roots in the Old French language, specifically the word "navet" which meant "turnip". This word originated from the Latin word "naveta", which translates to "small ship" or "shuttle". The term "navette" was initially used to refer to a small boat or shuttle used to ferry people or goods across a body of water. Over time, the word took on various meanings, including the shuttle used in weaving or the small, elongated loaf of bread that resembles a shuttle shape. In contemporary usage, "navette" refers to a shuttle or transport vehicle, particularly in the domain of transportation or fashion.