Hemmed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hemmed
[hɛm ]
Definitions
sewing technique
To hem something means to finish the edge of a piece of fabric, typically to prevent it from fraying. This is often done with a fold and a stitch to create a neat edge.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She hemmed the dress before wearing it.
- The tailor hemmed the pants for a perfect fit.
- He learned how to hem his own clothes.
- The edges of the curtains were hemmed to match the decor.
constrain
To hem someone in means to restrict their movement or freedom, often by surrounding them. This usage conveys a sense of being trapped or limited by external forces.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The police hemmed in the protesters.
- She felt hemmed in by her responsibilities.
- The walls of the old town hemmed in the market square.
- They were hemmed in by thick underbrush.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Fashion & Textile
- A hem can be of various styles, such as a straight hem, scalloped hem, or rolled hem, adding unique details to garments.
- Hemming techniques have evolved with technology; today, sewing machines can do hems much faster and more precisely than hand-stitching.
- In garment construction, the length of a hem can greatly influence the look and style of clothing.
Cultural Significance
- In some cultures, the way a garment is hemmed can signify marital status, wealth, or social class.
- Traditional crafts like quilting often incorporate intricate hems as part of artistic expression.
- Hemming is a common practice in professional tailoring, indicating a garment’s craftsmanship and quality.
Practical Use
- Hemming helps prevent the fabric edges from fraying, which can ruin the item over time.
- Home sewers often learn to hem as one of the first skills, as it’s essential for making or altering clothing.
- Hemming is not limited to clothing; it is also commonly used in curtains, tablecloths, and upholstery.
Modern Applications
- With the rise of fast fashion, the concept of hemming has extended to quick alterations done quickly for mass-produced garments.
- Professionally hemmed clothes are often seen as more polished, affecting perceptions of style and professionalism.
- Today, technology has introduced adhesive hems and no-sew options, making hemming more accessible for many.
Origin of 'hemmed'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'hem' comes from the Old English 'hem' meaning 'to enclose or confine.'
- Historically, tailors used hems for both decorative and practical purposes, making clothes last longer.
- The term has been used in textiles since the 14th century in England.
The word 'hem' originates from the Old English 'ham', which referred to the border or edge of a garment. It is related to terms in various Germanic languages that also denote edges or borders. Over time, the term evolved to include specific techniques for finishing fabric edges to prevent fraying. The verb form 'hemmed' emerged as sewing practices became more standardized, particularly in the context of clothing design. In addition to its primary meaning in sewing, 'hem' has taken on metaphorical meanings in modern English, indicating confinement or restriction. This evolution demonstrates language's capacity to adapt to cultural practices and societal changes.