sukkula

A sukkula is a Finnish term that generally refers to a shuttle or a dart. In a broader sense, it can describe anything that moves quickly and pointedly, often through the air or a specific medium. The word's etymology suggests a connection to the act of darting or shooting.

The most common usage of sukkula is in the context of weaving. In this application, it is a tool used to carry the weft yarn through the shed of the warp threads. A weaving sukkula typically has a pointed end and a hollow interior or a spindle onto which the weft yarn is wound. As the weaver passes the sukkula back and forth, the weft yarn is laid across the warp, forming the fabric. Different types of shuttles exist for various weaving techniques and yarn types.

Beyond weaving, the term can occasionally be used metaphorically. For instance, a fast-moving vehicle or a quick-witted person might be described as moving like a sukkula. In some older contexts, it could also refer to a projectile weapon, though this is less common in modern usage. The core concept remains that of rapid, directed movement.