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Sew Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงต
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sew

[sษ™สŠ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

needle and thread

To join or attach something by using a needle and thread.

Synonyms

fasten, mend, stitch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sew

Used when creating or repairing clothes or fabric items by joining pieces of fabric together with a needle and thread.

  • She learned to sew her own dresses.
  • He needs to sew the patch onto his jacket.
stitch

Often used in both medical and sewing contexts; in sewing, it means making a single loop or series of loops with a needle and thread, while in medicine, it refers to sewing up a cut or wound.

  • The doctor gave him stitches after the accident.
  • She carefully stitched the quilt pieces together.
fasten

Used when securing one object to another or closing something like a button, zipper, or belt.

  • Please fasten your seatbelt.
  • He fastened the buttons on his coat.
mend

Used when repairing damaged or broken items, especially clothes, to return them to a functional state.

  • Could you mend this tear in my shirt?
  • She mended the hole in his socks.

Examples of usage

  • She sewed a button back onto her shirt.
  • He sewed a patch onto his backpack.
Context #2 | Noun

needlework

The action or activity of sewing.

Synonyms

needlework, seamstress, stitching.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sew

This term is generally used when you are talking about the act of using a needle and thread to join pieces of fabric together. It can be a hobby, a craft, or a profession.

  • I learned how to sew from my grandmother.
  • Can you sew a button onto my shirt?
needlework

Typically used to describe the craft as a whole, including various forms such as embroidery, cross-stitch, and quilting. It is often associated with decorative or artistic endeavors.

  • She spends her weekends doing needlework.
  • This piece of needlework took months to complete.
stitching

This word focuses on the individual stitches or the process of making stitches. It can be used in both a hobby and professional setting.

  • The stitching on this bag is very fine.
  • She spent the evening stitching a quilt.
seamstress

Refers to a person, usually a woman, who earns a living by sewing clothes and other items. It often implies skill and professionalism.

  • The seamstress tailored my dress perfectly.
  • She opened a shop and works as a seamstress.

Examples of usage

  • She enjoys doing sew in her free time.
  • Sewing requires skill and patience.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, sewing is often linked to family traditions, where skills and patterns are passed down through generations.
  • Sewing clubs and communities have emerged worldwide, offering support and camaraderie among crafters.
  • Fashion design and garment production heavily rely on sewing, playing a crucial role in the global textiles industry.

Science

  • Sewing techniques can influence the durability and stretch of fabrics, impacting how clothing fits and feels.
  • The stitch density and type can affect fabric performance, with tight stitches providing stronger seams.
  • Modern sewing often incorporates technology, such as sewing machines that can quilt, weave, and even embroider automatically.

Psychology

  • Engaging in sewing can be a form of mindfulness, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
  • Creating something with your hands has been shown to boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment.
  • Sewing can foster creativity, allowing individuals to express themselves through patterns, colors, and designs.

History

  • Sewing has been a necessity since prehistoric times, with the first needles made from bones or thorns used to stitch hides together.
  • The invention of the sewing machine in the 19th century revolutionized the industry, making clothing production faster and more efficient.
  • During wartime, sewing became a critical skill as people crafted uniforms, tents, and other essential gear for soldiers.

Origin of 'sew'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sew' comes from the Old English 'siwian', which meant to stitch or to make.
  • Related words in other languages include 'coudre' in French and 'nรคhen' in German, showing a common need for stitching across cultures.
  • The past tense of the word is 'sewed', while the past participle is 'sewn', reflecting its evolution in the English language.

The word 'sew' has its origins in Old English 'siwian', which is of Germanic origin. It has been used in the English language since the Middle Ages, evolving to its current form and meaning over time. Sewing has been an essential skill throughout human history, used for creating and repairing garments, textiles, and other items.

See also: sewer, sewing.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,543, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.