Sewing Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈsuːɪŋ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

The act of repairing, making, or embellishing materials, such as fabric, using a needle and thread or other equipment.

Examples

• The dressmaker spent hours sewing the buttons on the coat.
• Sewing is a skill that requires patience and attention to detail.

Synonyms

• Stitching
• Embroidery

Antonyms

• Tearing
• Fraying

Etymology

The word “sewing” originates from the Old English word “sēwan”, meaning “to sew” or “to stitch”, which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*sawiz”, related to the Proto-Indo-European root “*sāw-” meaning “to sew” or “to join”.

Additional Information

Sewing is a versatile skill that can be used for a wide range of applications, including repairing torn fabric, making new garments, and creating decorative items like quilts and embroidered designs. It is an important part of many industries, including fashion, upholstery, and textiles. With the advancement of technology, sewing has evolved to incorporate various techniques and tools, making it a highly adaptable and rewarding skill.

Usage Notes

Sewing is often used as a verb, meaning to join or repair something with thread or yarn. It can also be used as a noun, referring to the act of sewing itself, as in “I’m going to do some sewing tonight.”

Cultural References

Sewing has been a significant part of human culture for thousands of years, with evidence of sewing and embroidery dating back to ancient civilizations in Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In modern times, sewing has been featured in numerous films, literature, and television shows, often as a way to showcase craftsmanship, creativity, and resourcefulness.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some common idiomatic expressions that include the word “sewing” include “sewing together” (repairing or joining), “sewing up” (mending), and “sewing kit” (a collection of needles, threads, and other sewing tools).

Related Words or Phrases

• Nut and bolt
• Stitch
• Fabric

Collocations

• Sewing machine
• Sewing needle
• Sewing thread

Frequency of Use

The frequency of using the word “sewing” has remained relatively steady over the past few decades, with a slight increase in usage in recent years due to the rise of online sewing communities and tutorials.

Common Misspellings

• Seiging
• Sewing
• Sewwing