seam

[ seem ]

noun

1. the line formed by sewing together pieces of cloth, leather, or the like.
2. the stitches used to make such a line.
3. any line formed by abutting edges.
4. any linear indentation or mark, as a wrinkle or scar.
5. Knitting. a line of stitches formed by purling.
6. Geology. a comparatively thin stratum; a bed, as of coal.

verb (used with object)

1. to join with or as if with stitches; make the seam or seams of.
2. to furrow; mark with wrinkles, scars, etc.
3. Knitting. to knit with or in a seam.

verb (used without object)

1. to become cracked, fissured, or furrowed.
2. Knitting. to make a line of stitches by purling.

seam

/ siːm /

noun

1. the line along which pieces of fabric are joined, esp by stitching
2. a ridge or line made by joining two edges
3. a stratum of coal, ore, etc
4. a linear indentation, such as a wrinkle or scar
5. surgery another name for suture
6. modifier cricket of or relating to a style of bowling in which the bowler utilizes the stitched seam round the ball in order to make it swing in flight and after touching the ground

   a seam bowler

7. bursting at the seams
   full to overflowing
8. in a good seam dialect.
   doing well, esp financially

verb

1. tr to join or sew together by or as if by a seam
2. to make ridges in (knitting) using purl stitch
3. to mark or become marked with or as if with a seam or wrinkle

seam

/ sēm /

1. A thin layer or stratum, as of coal or rock.

Other Words From

• seamer noun
• under·seam noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of seam¹

before 1000; Middle English seme (noun), Old English sēam; cognate with German Saum hem; akin to sew ¹, Greek hymḗn membrane ( hymen )

Word History and Origins

Origin of seam¹

Old English; related to Old Norse saumr, Old High German soum

Idioms and Phrases

see burst at the seams ; come apart at the seams .

Example Sentences

So, with jeans we focussed on things such as the fabric rubbing together and seam strength.

From BBC

Pakistan employed spin exclusively across the 68.2 overs, the longest first innings in Test history without any seam bowling.

From BBC

"We know it's probably not going to swing and seam and do all sorts in the first session, so we look at the pitch and work out what the best team is going to be," England batter Harry Brook told BBC Sport.

From BBC

He would also provide a much-needed fourth seam bowling option to the attack.

From BBC

Cross has led England's seam attack for the past few years and at 32, is one of usual captain Heather Knight's most reliable performers.

From BBC

Related Words

• hem
• joint
• pleat