seam

¹seam

noun \ˈsēm\

Definition of SEAM

1

a : the joining of two pieces (as of cloth or leather) by sewing usually near the edge

b : the stitching used in such a joining

2

: the space between adjacent planks or strakes of a ship

3

a : a line, groove, or ridge formed by the abutment of edges

b : a thin layer or stratum (as of rock) between distinctive layers; also : a bed of valuable mineral and especially coal irrespective of thickness

c : a line left by a cut or wound; also : wrinkle

4

: a weak or vulnerable area or gap <found a seam in the zone defense>

— seam·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective

— at the seams

: entirely, completely <falling apart at the seams>

Examples of SEAM

1. the seams of a dress
2. the seams of a boat
3. a rich seam of iron ore

Origin of SEAM

Middle English seem, from Old English sēam; akin to Old English sīwian to sew — more at sew

First Known Use: before 12th century

Other Handicraft Terms

biscuit, darn, tambour, wrought

Rhymes with SEAM

beam, bream, cream, deem, deme, dream, gleam, meme, neem, Nîmes, ream, scheme, scream, seem, seme, steam, stream, team, teem, theme

²seam

verb

Definition of SEAM

transitive verb

1

a : to join by sewing

b : to join as if by sewing (as by welding, riveting, or heat-sealing)

2

: to mark with lines suggesting seams

intransitive verb

: to become fissured or ridgy

— seam·er noun

Examples of SEAM

1. <in fencing circles it is a mark of honor to have one's face seamed with saber cuts>

First Known Use of SEAM

1582

Related to SEAM

Synonyms

groove, scribe, score

Related Words

abrade, file, graze, mill, rasp, scarify, scratch; bevel, chamfer, flute