An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

A slender pointed piece of metal, usually steel. → magnetic needle.

Etymology (EN): M.E. nedle, O.E. naeðlæ, nedlæ
(cf. O.S. nathla, O.N. nal, O.Fris. nedle, O.H.G. nadala, Ger. Nadel); PIE root *(s)ne- “to sew, to spin;” cf. Skt. snayati “wraps up;” Gk. nein “to spin;” L. nere “to spin.”

Etymology (PE): Suzan, Mid.Pers. sôzan, sucan, related to sok “pointed stick for driving cattle;” Av. sūkā- “needle;” cf. Skt. sūcī- “sting;” L. cuneus “wedge;” PIE base kū- “sharp; spike.”