gros point: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowSpecialized/Technical
Quick answer
What does “gros point” mean?
A large, decorative stitch used in needlepoint or embroidery, typically forming a solid, textured surface.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A large, decorative stitch used in needlepoint or embroidery, typically forming a solid, textured surface.
A style of needlepoint characterized by these large stitches, often used for upholstery, cushions, or decorative items; sometimes refers to the canvas or fabric worked in this technique.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The term is used identically in both varieties within the context of needlecraft.
Connotations
Connotes traditional, often high-quality, handcrafted textile work. May imply a certain level of skill or heritage craft.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both varieties, confined to specialist contexts like crafting, interior design, and antique descriptions.
Grammar
How to Use “gros point” in a Sentence
[to] work [OBJECT] in gros point[to] do gros pointa piece of gros pointVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gros point” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- She specialises in gros point upholstery.
- The antique chair had a beautiful gros point seat.
American English
- She specializes in gros point upholstery.
- The estate sale featured a gros point footstool.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in the context of luxury home furnishings or craft supply retail.
Academic
Used in art history, textile history, or material culture studies discussing decorative arts.
Everyday
Very rare. Used primarily by hobbyists engaged in needlecraft.
Technical
Standard term in needlecraft instructions, patterns, and discussions among practitioners.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gros point”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “gros point”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gros point”
- Misspelling as 'gross point'.
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I gros pointed a pillow').
- Confusing it with 'petit point', which uses much smaller stitches.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are different techniques. Gros point is a type of needlepoint or canvas work using large, straight stitches (often diagonal) to cover the canvas completely. Cross-stitch uses X-shaped stitches to form a pattern on even-weave fabric.
No, it is only a noun (and can be used attributively as an adjective). You 'do gros point', 'work in gros point', or 'create a gros point piece'.
The direct opposite in needlepoint terminology is 'petit point', which uses much smaller stitches to create finer detail.
No, it is a specialized term from the domain of needlecraft and decorative arts. Most people would not encounter it unless they have an interest in those hobbies or in antique furnishings.
A large, decorative stitch used in needlepoint or embroidery, typically forming a solid, textured surface.
Gros point is usually specialized/technical in register.
Gros point: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡrəʊ ˈpwæ̃/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɡroʊ ˈpwæ̃/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a GROS (gross, meaning large) POINT being made by a needle - a large stitch point.
Conceptual Metaphor
CRAFTSMANSHIP IS PATIENCE (the large, solid stitch represents a slow, meticulous building process).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary characteristic of 'gros point'?