Definition of: thimble

(thim′bəl) noun
1. A caplike cover with a pitted surface, worn in sewing to protect the end of the finger that pushes the needle.
2. Mech. A sleeve through which a bolt passes, or which unites two rods, tubes, or the like.
3. Naut. a A metal anti–chafing ring forming a guard over a loop or eye in a sail. b The metal piece about which a rope is bent and spliced to the main body of the rope to form an eye. [OE thӮmel <thūma thumb]