Pronunciation: [pˈɜːn] (IPA) 
Pirn is a small, cylindrical object used in weaving that holds the weft or filling yarn. The pronunciation of Pirn is [pɜːn], with the phonetic symbol for "e" pronounced like a British English "u" sound. The "i" is pronounced like an English "eye" sound, while the "r" is a strong, rolled sound. The "n" is pronounced like a normal English "n". The spelling of "pirn" may appear unusual to some, but it is a common word in the textile industry.
A pirn is a small, cylindrical-shaped object used in the textile industry, particularly in weaving. It is commonly made of wood or plastic and typically measures around 5 to 7 inches long with a diameter of 1 to 1.5 inches. The pirn serves as a bobbin to hold the weft yarn, which is the horizontal thread that interlaces with the warp thread to create a woven fabric.
The process of using a pirn involves winding the weft yarn around the pirn in a specific manner to ensure its smooth unwinding during the weaving process. This is usually done on a pirn winder, a device designed explicitly for this purpose. Once the pirn is loaded with the weft yarn, it is inserted into the shuttle, a weaving tool that carries the weft thread across the warp threads during weaving.
The use of a pirn offers several advantages in weaving. Its shape allows for easier unwinding of the weft yarn, reducing the risk of tangles or snags that could disrupt the weaving process. Additionally, pirns can hold a significant amount of weft yarn, allowing weavers to continue weaving for longer periods without frequent thread changes.
Overall, a pirn is a vital tool in the textile industry that enables efficient, reliable, and smooth weaving by holding and dispensing the weft yarn.
The word "pirn" has a Scots origin and is primarily used in Scottish dialects. It refers to a wooden bobbin or cylinder that is commonly used in weaving.
The etymology of "pirn" can be traced back to the Middle English word "pir(r)n", which means "a reel used in yarn making". From there, it is believed to have derived from the Old French word "piroun" or "piron", which refers to a skewer or spit. This Old French word, in turn, comes from the Latin word "pyrum", meaning "pear".
The connection between "pirn" and "pyrum" is unclear, but it is speculated that the similarity in shape between a pear and the cylindrical wooden bobbin may have influenced the evolution of the term.
