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Stitches Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงต
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stitches

[หˆstษชtสƒษชz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical

Stitches refer to a medical procedure in which a doctor uses special thread to sew up a wound or incision. Stitches are essential for closing wounds and promoting healing. They are often used after surgeries or injuries to help the skin heal properly.

Synonyms

closure, seams, sutures.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stitches

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.
sutures

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.
seams

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.
closure

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.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor placed stitches on the patient's wound to help it heal.
  • After the surgery, the stitches prevented any infection from entering the incision.
  • She needed stitches after accidentally cutting her finger with a knife.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

In informal usage, stitches can also refer to a fit of laughter that causes abdominal pain. It is a colloquial expression used to describe something extremely funny that makes someone laugh uncontrollably.

Synonyms

chuckles, giggles, laughs.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stitches

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.
laughs

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.
giggles

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.
chuckles

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.

Examples of usage

  • The comedian's jokes had the audience in stitches throughout the show.
  • Watching the funny video had her in stitches for hours.
  • His hilarious stories always leave me in stitches.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Medical Practice

  • Stitches, also known as sutures, have been used for thousands of years to help heal wounds.
  • There are different types of stitches, including absorbable ones that dissolve on their own over time.
  • Doctors often use stitches on cuts, surgeries, or to help close up injuries quickly.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, stitches symbolize healing and recovery from injuries or hardships.
  • In arts and crafts, techniques similar to stitches are used in quilting and embroidery to create beautiful designs.
  • Songs and stories often reference 'stitches' metaphorically to discuss love, hurt, or recovery.

Historical Origins

  • The word 'suture' comes from the Latin 'sutura', meaning 'a seam'.
  • Ancient Egyptians used linen strips to stitch up wounds as early as 3000 BC.
  • Throughout history, many cultures have developed their techniques for suturing, using materials like animal gut and silk.

Technology

  • Modern stitches can be made from various materials, including nylon, polyester, and silk, depending on the type of surgery.
  • Advancements in medical technology have led to the development of staplers that can close wounds quickly, sometimes replacing traditional stitches.
  • 3D printing technology has even started to play a role in creating specialized sutures and tools for surgery.

Psychological Aspects

  • Experiencing stitches often reminds individuals of their resilience and ability to heal after trauma.
  • In psychology, the concept of 'stitching up' emotional wounds can be linked to coping and recovery processes.
  • Stitches can symbolize the act of mending, not only physically but also in repairing relationships and emotional scars.

Origin of 'stitches'

The word 'stitches' originated from Old English 'stiฤ‹ฤ‹an', meaning 'to stab' or 'pierce'. Over time, it evolved to refer to the act of sewing with a needle and thread. The use of stitches in medical procedures dates back centuries, with advancements in techniques and materials improving over time.

See also: stitch, stitched, stitcher, stitching.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,705, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.