Meaning & Definition of word "Hem"

Hem

/hɛm/

1. A hem is a the edge of a piece of cloth or clothing that has been turned under and sewn, often to prevent fraying.
- Example: She decided to add a decorative hem to the bottom of her dress.
2. The hem refers to the folded and sewn edge of a fabric material.
- Example: Make sure to iron the hem before sewing it permanently.

1. To hem means to sew the edge of a piece of cloth or clothing to prevent it from unraveling.
- Example: I need to hem these pants because they are too long.
2. To hem can also mean to enclose or confine.
- Example: The tall buildings hemmed in the small park, casting shadows on the grass.

●Middle English 'hem', from Old English 'hæmm', related to the action of hemstitching or turning under fabric.

hem and haw:

To be indecisive or hesitate in making a decision.

hem in:

To enclose or confine within limits.

to hem something up:

To finish the edges of material or fabric.

hems:

Plural form referring to multiple edges or finished borders.

hemmed:

Past tense indicating something has been sewn or finished.

Meaning: A hesitation sound, similar to 'uh' or 'um'.

● Example Sentence: When he was asked, he just said 'hem...' before answering.

Meaning: To confine or restrict.

● Example Sentence: They felt hemmed in by all the rules.