Explore Arabic traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-10-13
Meaning: Verified- English translation
The yarn has unraveled back into wool.
- Literal wording
The spun yarn returned to wool.
- Meaning and lesson
It conveys that something carefully made or settled has come undone, returning to an earlier, unfinished state. The image is of spun yarn losing its form until it is only wool again.
It can also characterize a person who slips back into former habits or conduct despite an apparent change. The saying stresses reversal or collapse rather than progress, without specifying why the setback occurred.
- When it is used
Use it when an arrangement, achievement, or improvement has fallen apart and seems to be back where it started. It may also refer to someone returning to an earlier way of behaving.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: The yarn has unraveled back into wool.