close knit
close-knit (adjective, metaphor)
/ˌkloʊsˈnɪt/
Meaning
- Describes a group with strong emotional bonds and mutual support.
- Refers to people who are closely united and often together.
- Indicates loyal, cooperative individuals in a tight social unit.
- Applies to groups that trust and depend on each other.
Example Sentences
- Our close-knit family always supports each other during tough times.
- The village is a close-knit community where everyone knows one another.
- She grew up in a close-knit group of friends who still stay in touch.
- The team’s success came from being a close-knit unit on and off the field.
- They created a close-knit workplace culture that feels like home.
Origin and History
The term “close-knit” is a compound adjective formed from “close,” meaning near or tight, and “knit,” referring to the interlacing of yarn to create fabric. The word “knit” has been used since the 14th century to describe the act of creating a tightly woven material. This imagery of interwoven threads directly correlates to the metaphorical use of “close-knit” to describe groups bound by strong, inseparable ties.
Earliest Recorded Usage
The earliest known printed use of “close-knit” in its metaphorical sense dates back to 1860, in Edward Everett Hale’s The Elements of Christian Doctrine, where he refers to “a close-knit company of brethren and sisters.” This suggests that the term was in use in the United States during the mid-19th century.
Cultural and Regional Origins
While the earliest recorded usage is American, the concept of tightly bound communities is universal. In Hinduism, for instance, the sun is described as “close-knit” in its role of uniting day and night, symbolizing the interconnectedness of time and existence. This reflects the broader, cross-cultural appreciation for tightly bound systems, whether in nature or society.
Evolution of Meaning
Initially, “close-knit” described the physical tightness of woven materials. Over time, it evolved to characterize human relationships and communities that are tightly united by social, cultural, or emotional bonds. This shift from a literal to a metaphorical application illustrates the dynamic nature of language and how physical concepts often inform our understanding of social structures.
About the Author
Elena Jones holds a PhD in Education from Harvard University. She has extensive experience teaching at both the K–12 and university levels, with a particular focus on English as a Second Language. Elena has dedicated her career to advancing educational practices, and she has contributed to numerous educational journals.
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