Main Entry: ¹seam

Pronunciation: \ˈsēm\

Function: noun

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

Date: before 12th century

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>