næh

Näh is a German linguistic element associated with sewing and textile crafts. In standard German, the verb is Nähen, meaning to sew. The bound morpheme Näh- appears in compound nouns such as Näherei (the sewing industry or workshop), Nähmaschine (sewing machine), and Nähfaden (sewing thread). It is not typically used as an independent noun outside of these compounds, and the spelling reflects the connection to sewing rather than to the German noun Nähe, which means proximity.

Sewing as a practice encompasses manual techniques and mechanical processes. Hand sewing relies on a needle, thread, and fabric, using stitches such as running stitch, backstitch, and slip stitch. Machine sewing uses a sewing machine to form seams rapidly and with uniformity, often employing straight stitches and zigzag or overlock stitches for finishing. Common materials include fabric, thread, scissors, pins, and needles, with notions such as buttons, zippers, and hems that require specialized techniques.

Historical context places sewing as an ancient craft with evidence from prehistoric textiles and early civilizations. The mechanization of sewing began in the 19th century with the development of practical sewing machines, which transformed garment production and home sewing. In modern times, sewing remains a widespread skill in fashion, crafts, and garment repair, supported by a global industry and a wide array of tools and techniques.

Related terms and concepts linked to Näh include compositions such as Nähfaden, Nadel (needle), and Nähmaschine, illustrating how the root permeates various aspects of sewing and textile work.