Stitches: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in medical situations where a wound or surgical incision needs to be closed. Commonly used in both technical and everyday language.

• The doctor put in ten stitches to close the gash on his leg.
• She had to get stitches after the surgery.

A technical term used primarily in medical settings to describe the stitching used by surgeons to close a wound or surgical incision. It is less commonly used in everyday language compared to 'stitches'.

• The surgeon used sutures to ensure the wound would heal properly.
• Absorbable sutures are often used for internal tissue.

Commonly used in the context of textiles and sewing, referring to the line where two pieces of fabric are joined together. This word is rarely used in medical contexts.

• She skillfully sewed the seams of the dress.
• The seams of the pillow need reinforcement.

Often used in a broader sense to refer to the act of closing something, such as a wound, door, or even an abstract situation like a project. It can be used both in medical and non-medical contexts.

• The hospital achieved successful closure of the wound.
• The project came to a satisfactory closure.

Used to describe someone laughing very hard, often to the point where it hurts. Informal and often used in the phrase 'in stitches'.

• The comedian had the entire audience in stitches with his jokes.
• She was in stitches after hearing the hilarious story.

A general term for expressing amusement, can vary in intensity and tone. Suitable for most contexts where someone is showing joy or amusement.

• The movie was so funny that everyone laughed out loud.
• She laughed at his silly antics.

Used to describe light, often high-pitched laughter, typically from children or someone trying to suppress their laughter. Can sometimes carry a sense of immaturity.

• The children giggled as they played on the swings.
• She couldn't stop giggling during the serious meeting, which embarrassed her.

Used to describe a soft, quiet laugh, often out of amusement or mild enjoyment. More subdued and polite than other forms of laughter.

• He chuckled softly at the witty comment.
• The old man chuckled as he recalled his youth.