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n. 1. a. A single complete movement of a threaded needle in sewing or surgical suturing: made multiple stitches. b. A single loop of thread or yarn made with an implement such as a sewing or knitting needle. c. A single loop or knot of thread used in closing a wound or incision in surgery; a suture. d. A way of arranging the threads in sewing, knitting, crocheting, or suturing: used a purl stitch. 2. A sudden sharp pain, especially in the side. See Synonyms at pain. 3. Informal An article of clothing: wore not a stitch. 4. Informal The least part; a bit: didn't do a stitch of work. v. stitched, stitch·ing, stitch·es v.tr. 1. a. To fasten or join with stitches. b. To mend or repair with stitches: stitched up the tear. 2. To decorate or ornament, as with stitches: "The sky was stitched with stars" (Mario Puzo). 3. To fasten together with staples or thread. v.intr. Idiom: To make stitches; sew, knit, crochet, or suture. in stitches Informal Laughing uncontrollably. [Middle English stiche, from Old English stice, sting; see steig- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] stitcher n. |
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