[f. SPINSTER + -Y (cf. -RY).]

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  1.  The art or occupation of spinning; the product of spinning.

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1611.  Cotgr., Filandrerie, spinstrie, spinning.

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1652.  Charleton, Darkn. Atheism, x. 353. The spinstry of Silkworms.

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1660.  trans. Amyraldus’ Treat. conc. Relig., II. iii. 193. The combates of the Gods one against another,… their imployments of the Forge and Spinstry.

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1859.  Jrnl. Brit. Archæol. Assoc., Dec., 309. The instruments of spinstry were borne in procession before a newly married bride.

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  transf.  1653.  Hemings, Fatal Contract, II. ii. Come along, Or by the curious spinstrie of thy head, Which natures cunnin’st finger twisted out, I’l drag thee to my couch.

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  † 2.  Spinsterhood. Obs.–1

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1784.  R. Bage, Barham Downs, II. 242. It has come to pass very unnaturally, that I have lived to a very respectable age of Spinstry, without falling in love.

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