seam

1 of 2

noun

ˈsēm 

1

a

: the joining of two pieces (as of cloth or leather) by sewing usually near the edge

b

: the stitching used in such a joining

2

: the space between adjacent planks or strakes of a ship

3

a

: a line, groove, or ridge formed by the abutment of edges

b

: a thin layer or stratum (as of rock) between distinctive layers

also : a bed of valuable mineral and especially coal irrespective of thickness

c

: a line left by a cut or wound

also : wrinkle

4

: a weak or vulnerable area or gap

found a seam in the zone defense

seamlike

ˈsēm-ˌlīk 

adjective

seam

2 of 2

verb

seamed; seaming; seams

transitive verb

1

a

: to join by sewing

b

: to join as if by sewing (as by welding, riveting, or heat-sealing)

2

: to mark with lines suggesting seams

intransitive verb

: to become fissured or ridgy

seamer noun

Phrases

at the seams

: entirely, completely

falling apart at the seams

Synonyms

Verb

• groove
• score
• scribe

Examples of seam in a Sentence

Noun

the seams of a dress

the seams of a boat

a rich seam of iron ore

Verb

in fencing circles it is a mark of honor to have one's face seamed with saber cuts

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

In a show that promoted body diversity, the silhouettes of bodysuits, collar-less jackets and jeans were emphasized by seam details and hi-low contrasts. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 4 Mar. 2025

The ball used in the KBO is tackier and the seams are different, the strike zone is much smaller and the ballparks tend to be very hitter friendly. —Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 25 Feb. 2025

Verb

Plus, the high-rise, slim fit, and seam down the legs make for a flattering and elongating appearance. —Wendy Vazquez, Southern Living, 14 Feb. 2025

Women’s styles include a French Terry Icon Jacket, Sweat Baggy Jeans and seamed wide-leg sweatpants in medium indigo. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 16 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English seem, from Old English sēam; akin to Old English sīwian to sew — more at sew

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1582, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Phrases Containing seam

• coal seam
• French seam

Rhymes for seam

• beam
• bream
• cream
• creme
• deem
• dream
• gleam
• meme
• ream
• scheme
• scream
• seem

Kids Definition

seam

1 of 2 noun

ˈsēm 

1

: the fold, line, or groove made by sewing together or joining two edges or two pieces

the seams of a dress

the seams of a boat

2

a

: a raised or sunken line : groove, furrow, wrinkle

b

: a layer (as of rock) between clearly different layers

coal seams

seamless

-ləs

adjective

seam

2 of 2 verb

1

: to join with a seam

2

: to mark with a line, scar, or wrinkle

creeks seam the valley

a face seamed with age