stitch-up

[ stich-uhp ]

noun

, British Informal.

1. a scheme of deception that exploits or falsely incriminates someone, possibly leading to a false arrest; a setup:

   These allegations against the mayor are part of an outrageous stitch-up.

stitch up

verb

1. to join or mend by means of stitches or sutures
2. slang.
   1. to incriminate (someone) on a false charge by manufacturing evidence
   2. to betray, cheat, or defraud
3. slang.
   to prearrange (something) in a clandestine manner

noun

1. slang.
   a matter that has been prearranged clandestinely

Word History and Origins

Origin of stitch-up¹

First recorded in 1980–85; stitch ( def ) + up ( def )

Example Sentences

One is a notorious stitch-up - or "screwjob", in wrestling terms - involving legendary wrestler Bret "The Hitman" Hart.

From BBC

Reform leader Nigel Farage claimed it was an "establishment stitch-up" as the co-owner of the company, Vetting.com, Colin Bloom is a former Tory adviser.

From BBC

The area's current Tory MP Anthony Mangnall, who was not invited to take part in the events, called the process a "Lib Dem, Green stitch-up".

From BBC

"We're convinced it was going to be a stitch-up", remembers Test Match Special's Jonathan Agnew, who had joined the touring party in Calcutta after Paul Allott had to return home with a back injury.

From BBC

The candidates were asked if the Unite union nomination for Mr Gething - where Mr Miles was invited for a hustings despite not being eligible for the endorsement - was a stitch-up.

From BBC