n. 1. One of a set of parallel cords or wires in a loom, used to separate and guide the warp threads and make a path for the shuttle. 2. A frame fitted with rigid wooden or plastic strips and used for the same purpose, especially in smaller looms. [Probably alteration of Middle English helde, from Old English hefeld; see kap- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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