n.
Pronunciation: ' bä-b ə n
Function: noun
Etymology: origin unknown
Date: 1530
1 a : a cylinder or spindle on which yarn or thread is wound (as in a sewing machine) b : any of various small round devices on which threads are wound for working handmade lace c : a coil of insulated wire also : the reel it is wound on
2 : a cotton cord formerly used by dressmakers for piping