seam

noun

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\ ˈsēm

Definition of seam

(Entry 1 of 2)

1a : 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

3a : 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

at the seams

: entirely, completely falling apart at the seams

seam

verb

seamed; seaming; seams

Definition of seam (Entry 2 of 2)

transitive verb

1a : 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

Other Words from seam Synonyms More Example Sentences Phrases Containing seam Learn More About seam

Examples of seam in a Sentence

Noun the seams of a dress the seams of a boat a rich seam of iron ore Verb in fencing circles it is a mark of honor to have one's face seamed with saber cuts

Recent Examples on the Web: Noun Her fundamental garments — ankle-length dresses, an A-line black skirt, a traditional trench — have subtle but special touches, like seam detailing and gathered pleating, and are rendered in organic cottons, recycled polyesters and vegan leather. — New York Times, 12 May 2022 Its anti-chafe flatlock seam prevents armpit irritation, and silver ions fend off BO. — Christian Gollayan, Men's Health, 2 May 2022 Keljo’s directly followed by junior Ty Alleman — a bullpen pitcher who worked his way into the starting lineup by way of an excellent two-seam and slider — and Noble Meyer. — oregonlive, 14 Apr. 2022 Place seam-side down, 2 inches apart, on the prepared baking sheets. — Jessica Battilana, San Francisco Chronicle, 4 Mar. 2022 Overton threw six different pitches in Saturday’s start: Four-seam fastball, sinker, cutter, slider, curveball and changeup. — Bobby Nightengale, The Enquirer, 1 May 2022 With two outs in the first inning, Turner blasted a two-run home run to left field on Alexander's 0-2 four-seam fastball. — Evan Petzold, Detroit Free Press, 30 Apr. 2022 Civale isn’t going to freeze many hitters with his velocity, but according to baseballsavant.com the velo on his four-seam fastball, sinker and cut fastball were all higher than his season average. — Paul Hoynes, cleveland, 25 Apr. 2022 Cabrera flied out to left field in the first inning on a second-pitch 91.4 mph four-seam fastball in an 0-1 count. — Evan Petzold, USA TODAY, 22 Apr. 2022 Recent Examples on the Web: Verb Many factors, like fabric choice and seam design, can affect a parachute’s effectiveness. — New York Times, 7 Mar. 2022 Scoop about ¼ cup of the tofu mixture into each tortilla, roll tightly and place seam side down into the baking dish. — Bethany Thayer, Detroit Free Press, 29 Jan. 2022 Then, lightly flour the tops of the loaves and place them in the baskets to proof, seam-side facing up. — Washington Post, 19 May 2021 The prospect of the next month without Davis could seam bleak, but there are worse outcomes, and with the Lakers’ luck 31 games into this season, no one would’ve been shocked. — Los Angeles Times, 20 Dec. 2021 Once all burritos have been filled and rolled, return to dry skillet, seam side down, to seal and toast to a golden brown color. — Minerva Orduño Rincón, The Arizona Republic, 20 Nov. 2021 Roll up tortillas and place in a microwave-safe dish just big enough to hold them, seam side down. — Tribune News Service, cleveland, 18 Oct. 2021 Place the roll-up, seam side down, in the baking dish. — Washington Post, 9 Sep. 2021 Look for rips, tears, and weak tent poles, and consider re-waterproofing your tent with a spray coating or seam sealant. — Adrienne Donica, Popular Mechanics, 30 June 2021 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'seam.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.