Pronunciation: [hˈaŋks] (IPA) 
The word "hanks" refers to multiple lengths of thread or yarn wound around each other and tied in a knot. Its correct spelling is [hæŋks], with the "a" being pronounced as "æ" in the International Phonetic Alphabet. The "n" and "k" are pronounced as in the English alphabet, while the "s" is silent. This spelling allows for clear pronunciation, indicating the correct vowel sound while distinguishing it from "hangs" and other similar words.
Hanks is a noun that refers to a unit of yarn or thread, typically used in the textile industry. A hank is usually a loosely coiled or twisted length of material, such as wool, cotton, or silk, which is wound together without being closely knotted or secured in any way. It is commonly used as a form of measurement, with the length of a hank varying depending on the material being measured.
In the context of textiles, hanks are often used as a basis for calculating the quantity of yarn needed for different projects. They can be further subdivided into smaller units, such as skeins or balls, to make it easier to work with and handle the thread. Hanks are widely used in various crafts and hobbies that involve knitting, crocheting, weaving, or embroidery, as they offer a convenient way to store and transport yarn while maintaining its quality.
The term "hank" can also be used metaphorically to describe a messy or tangled situation. It conveys a sense of disorder or confusion, similar to the way that a loosely coiled hank of yarn appears. This usage is more colloquial and less common than the textile-related definition.
In summary, a hank is a unit of yarn or thread, typically wound in a loose coil, that is used to measure and handle materials in the textile industry. It can also refer to a messy or tangled situation in a figurative sense.
The word "hanks" has its origins in Old English. It is derived from the plural form of "hank", which originally referred to a loop or coil of thread or yarn. The Old English word "hanc" meant "a circle, coil, or skein". Over time, the plural form "hanks" came to specifically represent a fixed length of thread or yarn, often used for measuring or selling purposes. The etymology of "hanks" ultimately traces back to Proto-Germanic origins.
