darn

Darn is a verb meaning to mend a hole or worn area in fabric, especially knitted items, by weaving thread across the damaged region to create a patch that blends with the surrounding material. Darning is a common domestic repair technique used to extend the life of socks, stockings, sweaters, and other knitwear.

The repair is typically done with a darning needle and, for stability, a backing such as a wooden darning egg, ring, or simply a smooth surface. The usual method involves laying parallel strands of yarn across the hole and then weaving a second set of threads perpendicular to them, forming a woven patch that can resemble the surrounding fabric.

As a mild interjection, darn functions as a euphemistic oath, meaning roughly “I am annoyed” or “that was unfortunate.” It is commonly used in phrases like “darn it” or “darned if I know” and is one of several softened alternatives to stronger profanity.

Etymology: The exact origin is uncertain. The verb sense appears in Middle English, and the interjection sense developed later as a softened oath. The terms are historically distinct but share the same spelling in modern English.