a small, usually round object of glass, wood, stone, or the like with a hole through it, often strung with others of its kind in necklaces, bracelets, etc., a small, often round object of plastic, wood, or similar material with a hole through it, used for decoration or for holding things together, a drop of liquid that forms or hangs from something

draw a bead on, count one's beads, bead of courage

Formal and Informal Expressions of bead

In different contexts, you can replace 'bead' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'spherule, globule' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'little ball, tiny thing' is a commonplace synonym.

bead: Explore its Definition & Usage

bead Definition

1a small, usually round object of glass, wood, stone, or the like with a hole through it, often strung with others of its kind in necklaces, bracelets, etc.
2a small, often round object of plastic, wood, or similar material with a hole through it, used for decoration or for holding things together
3a drop of liquid that forms or hangs from something

Using bead: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "bead" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She wore a necklace of red beads.
Example
The curtains were held together with a string of wooden beads.
Example
A bead of sweat formed on his forehead.
Example
The raindrops beaded on the surface of the car.

bead Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for bead

Phrases with bead

draw a bead on
to aim a gun or other weapon at someone or something
Example
He drew a bead on the target and fired.
count one's beads
to say one's prayers with the aid of a rosary or string of beads
Example
She sat in the chapel, counting her beads.
bead of courage
a small, colorful bead given to a child with a serious illness for each medical procedure or treatment they undergo
Example
The hospital gave her a bead of courage for every chemotherapy session she completed.

Origins of bead

from Old English 'gebed' meaning 'prayer'

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Summary: bead in Brief

A 'bead' [biːd] is a small, often round object with a hole through it, made of materials such as glass, wood, or plastic, and used for decoration or for holding things together. It can also refer to a drop of liquid that forms or hangs from something. Examples include 'She wore a necklace of red beads' and 'A bead of sweat formed on his forehead.' Phrases include 'draw a bead on,' meaning to aim a weapon, and 'count one's beads,' meaning to say one's prayers.