Definition & Meaning of "spinning wheel"

What is a "spinning wheel"?

A spinning wheel is a tool used to spin fibers into yarn or thread. It consists of a large wheel connected to a spindle and a flyer. The wheel is turned by hand or with a foot pedal, which causes the spindle to spin and twist the fibers into a continuous strand. The flyer helps guide the yarn onto a spool or bobbin. Spinning wheels are used in textile crafts to create yarn for knitting, weaving, and other projects, allowing for efficient and controlled spinning of various fiber types.