Definition of the word safety pin

The safety pin, a small metallic device used to fasten clothing or secure items, owes its name to its innovative design. Before the safety pin was invented, the most common way to fasten clothing was by using regular pins with sharp points. These pins were difficult to use and dangerous, as they could easily prick and injure the person wearing the garment or the person helping them dress. In response to this problem, an English wool carder named Walter Hunt came up with a new idea for a clothing fastener. He created the first safety pin in 1849 by adding curved tips to the ends of a pin, which allowed it to be safely inserted and removed from fabric without posing a hazard to the person using it. Hunt's invention was an immediate success. Not only was it safer than traditional pins, but it was also more convenient because it could be easily opened and closed with one hand, making it especially useful for women and mothers who needed to dress children or themselves quickly and without assistance. The safety pin quickly gained popularity and was soon being produced on a large scale. In fact, by the late 19th century, the safety pin had become a common household item and was being used not just for clothing but also for a wide variety of other purposes, such as holding envelopes closed or repairing torn items. Today, safety pins remain a staple of everyday life, thanks to their versatility, convenience, and safety. They come in a variety of sizes and materials, from the traditional metal variety to modern versions made from biodegradable materials such as cornstarch. While some people still use traditional pins, the safety pin has effectively replaced them as the preferred method of fastening clothing for its ease of use and safety benefits.