Close-knit
Meaning
Describes a group of people, such as a family or community, who are bound together by strong relationships and provide mutual support.
Origin
The vivid imagery of 'close-knit' draws directly from the meticulous craft of textile creation. Picture a beautifully woven fabric or a carefully knitted garment: each thread is pulled taut, each loop intricately linked to the next, forming a dense, strong, and resilient material that won't easily unravel. The word 'knit' itself boasts Old English roots, stemming from 'cnyttan,' meaning to tie or bind. When the adverb 'close' was added, likely gaining common currency in the 19th and early 20th centuries, it wasn't just about literal proximity, but about the deliberate strength and intimacy of these connections. The phrase transitioned seamlessly from describing physical stitches to the metaphorical bonds between people, perfectly capturing the essence of a group bound by mutual reliance and unwavering support.
Examples
- The small village formed a close-knit community where everyone knew and looked out for each other.
- Despite living in different cities, the siblings maintained a close-knit bond, always calling each other for advice and support.