seam definition - Dictionary

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seam

seam [ seem ]

noun (plural seams)

Definition:

1. place where pieces join: the line along which pieces of cloth or leather are joined by sewing

2. stitches forming seam: the stitches used to form a seam

3. line formed by adjacent sections: any line, groove, or ridge formed by joining or fitting together two sections along their edges

4. linear indentation: a scar, wrinkle, or other linear indentation

5. geology thin layer of rock: a thin layer of a rock or mineral such as a coal deposit occurring between different strata of bedrock

verb (past and past participle seamed, present participle seam·ing, 3rd person present singular seams)

Definition:

1. transitive verb join things along edges: to join two parts or pieces along their edges, e.g. by sewing them together

2. transitive and intransitive verb mark with lines: to mark something with wrinkles, scars, furrows, or other lines, or become marked in this way

[ Old English sēam< Germanic, "sew"]

bulging or bursting at the seams extremely full

come or fall apart at the seams to show signs of imminent failure or collapse

Spelling Note


	seam or seem? Do not confuse the spelling of seam and seem, which sound similar. Seam is usually a noun, denoting a line, layer, or ridge where things join, as in sewed a seam, a rock seam. Seem is a verb, meaning "give a particular impression or sensation": He seemed to be looking for someone.They seem very pleasant.