pins and needles

plural noun

: a pricking tingling sensation in a limb growing numb or recovering from numbness
Phrases
on pins and needles
: in a nervous or jumpy state of anticipation

Examples of pins and needles in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Instead, some election-watchers waited on pins and needles for a prediction from Allan Lichtman, a 77-year-old distinguished professor of history at American University who lives in Bethesda, Maryland. Marina Pitofsky, USA TODAY, 22 Sep. 2024 Right now, the pins and needles circumstance is that the controversial bill sits on Governor Newsom’s desk and awaits his action, which must be taken by September 30, 2024. Lance Eliot, Forbes, 22 Sep. 2024 However, there were some side effects, including pins and needles, headache, fatigue and nausea, though the researchers report that these were mild to moderate. New Atlas, 10 Sep. 2024 Cam switched to another treatment that gave him constant pins and needles in his hands. Olivia Jordan Cornelius, Outside Online, 15 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for pins and needles 

Word History

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pins and needles was in 1813

Dictionary Entries Near pins and needles

Cite this Entry

“Pins and needles.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pins%20and%20needles. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

pins and needles

plural noun
: a pricking tingling feeling in an arm or leg that is recovering from numbness

Medical Definition

pins and needles

noun plural
: a pricking tingling sensation in a limb growing numb or recovering from numbness
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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