Much of our everyday language—in the form of idioms, clichés, or metaphors—makes reference to textiles. Using these phrases, we weave stories, spin tales, and thread narratives. But where do these expressions come from, and what do they mean?
In a blog series posted on intermittent Mondays, we will be unpacking textile-related idioms. Stay tuned to learn their metaphorical and historical meanings.
As everyone who loves textiles knows, despite our best efforts, eventually most things begin to break down and unravel. “Unraveling” refers to a piece of fabric breaking down and separating into its component threads.
In modern parlance, when something (not textile-related) unravels, it falls apart or fails. Plans may begin to unravel when friends cancel or unexpected weather spoils a picnic. The word itself dates back to the 1580s and, by the early seventeenth century, it was used to abstractly connote disintegration.
If you are beginning to feel unraveled—perhaps like the heavily mended Wrangler jeans in our object collection—let this be an invitation to take a moment to piece yourself together!