Word
hem
US/ˈhɛm/
UK/hˈɛm/
Countable noun Fashion
Definition
n. the edge of a piece of cloth that is folded over and sewn down to prevent it from coming apart. You usually find these at the bottom of trousers, skirts, or sleeves.
n. the finished edge of a garment or fabric, created by folding over a small portion and stitching it down. Often used to adjust the length of clothing.
Examples
“She needs to sew a new hem on her skirt.”
“The tailor adjusted the hem of the trousers to ensure they sat perfectly above the shoes.”
“While the bodice of the dress was intricately beaded, the designer opted for a simple blind hem to maintain a clean line at the floor-length skirt's edge.”
Examples
simple
“She needs to sew a new hem on her skirt.”
contextual
“The tailor adjusted the hem of the trousers to ensure they sat perfectly above the shoes.”
complex
“While the bodice of the dress was intricately beaded, the designer opted for a simple blind hem to maintain a clean line at the floor-length skirt's edge.”
Usage
Often used with the verb 'to take up' when shortening a garment.
Real-World Examples
“The cursive hems of party dresses looked like Hokusai waves.” Idioms
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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