Seamster: meaning, definitions and examples

🧵

Add to dictionary

seamster

[ˈsiːmstər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

tailor

A person whose occupation is sewing, especially one who earns a living by sewing clothes.

Synonyms

dressmaker, sewer, tailor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
seamster	This is a general term for someone who sews clothes. It can refer to both men and women but is less common. He works as a seamster in a small boutique. The seamster carefully stitched the fabric together.
tailor	Tailor is generally used to describe someone who makes, alters, or repairs clothing, especially men's suits. Tailors often work with more structured garments. The tailor took measurements to ensure a perfect fit for the suit. He visited the tailor to have his pants adjusted.
sewer	This word refers to someone who sews in general. While accurate, it can sometimes lead to confusion because it is spelled the same as 'sewer,' which is a conduit for carrying waste. Therefore, it's less commonly used in this context. The sewer spent hours repairing the old coat. She is a skilled sewer and can mend almost anything.
dressmaker	This term is usually used for someone who makes custom-made dresses, primarily for women. It is often used to describe someone who specializes in creating fashionable clothing. The dressmaker crafted a beautiful wedding gown for the bride. She has been a renowned dressmaker in Paris for over a decade.

Examples of usage

He found a talented seamster to make his custom suit.
The seamster carefully stitched the dress together.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sewing

A skilled person who can sew fabrics together with precision and expertise.

Synonyms

needleworker, sewer, stitcher.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
seamster	Used to describe a man who makes clothes, which is less common than 'seamstress' (for women). It is often used in professional contexts or historical references. The local seamster created bespoke suits for many business professionals. In the medieval times, a skilled seamster was highly sought after.
sewer	A general term for a person who sews. It can be used informally and in everyday contexts. Be aware that it can be confused with the term for a drainage system, which may cause misunderstandings. She is the best sewer in our crafting group. My grandmother was a skilled sewer and made all her own clothes.
needleworker	Refers to someone who does any kind of work with a needle, including sewing, embroidery, or weaving. It can be applied to both men and women. She is a talented needleworker, specializing in intricate embroidery. Needleworkers often spend hours creating beautiful pieces of art.
stitcher	Often refers to someone who works in a more specific aspect of sewing, such as stitching pieces together, which might be part of a larger garment production process. The term can be used both in industrial and hobby contexts. In the factory, the stitchers worked quickly to assemble the garments. As a hobby, he is an avid stitcher, creating elaborate patterns on his clothes.

Examples of usage

The seamster was known for his attention to detail.
She learned the art of sewing from her grandmother, a talented seamster.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'seamster' originates from Middle English 'seamstere', which means someone who sews seams.
The word combines 'seam', referring to the line where two pieces of fabric join, and the suffix '-ster', indicating a person involved in that activity.

Historical Significance

In medieval times, seamsters played a crucial role in tailoring garments for nobility, influencing fashion in Europe.
The development of sewing as an important craft was vital during the Industrial Revolution, leading to the rise of ready-made clothing.

Pop Culture

Sewing and seamstering often feature in popular culture, such as TV shows like 'Project Runway' that highlight the art of fashion design.
Famous seamsters, like Christian Dior and Coco Chanel, have greatly influenced modern fashion trends.

Technology

The introduction of the sewing machine in the 19th century revolutionized the work of seamsters, allowing them to work faster and more efficiently.
Today, digital sewing patterns and 3D garment design software have transformed how seamsters approach their craft.

Cultural Practices

In many cultures, the skills of seamstering are passed down through generations, often involving family traditions and community workshops.
The craft of seamstering supports various social movements, promoting sustainability and ethical fashion by encouraging reparations of old clothes.

Translations

Translations of the word "seamster" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alfaiate

🇮🇳 दर्जी

🇩🇪 Schneider

🇮🇩 penjahit

🇺🇦 кравець

🇵🇱 krawiec

🇯🇵 仕立屋 (したてや)

🇫🇷 tailleur

🇪🇸 sastre

🇹🇷 terzi

🇰🇷 재단사

🇸🇦 خياط

🇨🇿 krejčí

🇸🇰 krajčír

🇨🇳 裁缝 (cáifeng)

🇸🇮 krojač

🇮🇸 klæðskeri

🇰🇿 тігінші

🇬🇪 მკერავი

🇦🇿 dərzi

🇲🇽 sastre