What does stitch mean?
A stitch is a single loop of thread used in sewing or knitting, and it can also refer more broadly to the process of joining or repairing fabric. The related verb means to sew something together, close a tear, or fasten a wound with thread or surgical sutures. In ordinary craft contexts, stitch often emphasizes the individual fastening rather than the whole sewing process: a seam may contain many small stitches, while a knitted garment is made from rows of stitches. The word also has a medical use for the sutures that hold wound edges together. In informal English, 'stitches' can mean a sharp muscular pain, especially in the side, as when someone has exercised too vigorously. Across these senses, the central idea is a loop or joining action that secures material together. The word is useful because it connects everyday making, clothing repair, and medical treatment through one familiar term.
A single loop or fastening of thread used in sewing or knitting; an individual loop in knitted fabric; an act of sewing or joining; a suture closing a wound; or, informally, a sharp muscular pain.
"The doctor placed a stitch in the cut on her arm."
In medical English, the plural 'stitches' commonly refers to sutures. In informal British and American English, 'stitches' can also refer to a sudden pain in the side.
To join, repair, or fasten something by sewing with thread, or to close a wound with sutures.
"They stitched the two pieces of canvas together before sewing the bag."
The verb is common in sewing and knitting contexts and is also used figuratively in phrases such as 'stitch up' a relationship or agreement.
Usually countable when referring to individual loops, sutures, or points of a seam; 'stitches' may also mean abdominal pain in informal usage.
"The seam held because the tailor had used strong stitches."
From sewing to surgery, a stitch is one of humanity's oldest ways of bringing broken things back together.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does stitch come from?
The word descends from Old English stician, meaning to sew or pierce, and developed into the Middle English form stichen. Its connection with the modern noun is closely related to the idea of a needle piercing or passing through material. The English word belongs to a Germanic family that includes German sticken and Dutch stikken, both meaning to sew or stitch. The semantic connection with stick reflects the older image of a pointed or piercing implement passing through material.
Related word forms
How stitch is actually used
The basic sewing and knitting senses are standard in British and American English. The medical sense is common in clinical contexts, while the expression 'stitches' meaning abdominal pain is especially associated with informal descriptions of exercise-related pain.
Easily confused with stitch
A stitch is a loop or fastening made with thread, whereas a stick is a slender solid piece of wood, plastic, or another material.