seam

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Science Technical

n. a thin layer of a mineral, like coal, found between layers of rock.

n. a distinct, relatively thin stratum of an economically useful mineral or rock, such as coal or ore.

“The miners discovered a rich seam of coal deep underground.”

“Geological surveys indicated that the coal seam extended several miles eastward, though its thickness varied considerably across the basin.”

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Sports British English

n. the line of stitches around a cricket ball that affects how it bounces.

n. the raised equatorial stitching on a cricket ball; also refers to the lateral movement of the ball upon pitching on this stitching.

“The bowler used the seam of the ball to make it change direction.”

“The opening bowler exploited the humid conditions, landing the ball consistently on the seam to generate unpredictable lateral movement.”

C1 · Advanced Technical

v. to join two pieces of material together with a line of stitches.

v. to join two pieces of material by creating a seam; often used in manufacturing or tailoring contexts.

“The machine can seam the edges of the fabric very quickly.”

“The automated system is designed to seam heavy-duty canvas panels together with high precision for industrial use.”

C2 · Proficiency Literary

v. to mark a surface with a line or a scar.

v. to mark a surface with a line, wrinkle, or scar; often used in a literary sense to describe a face.

“Years of hard work had seamed his face with deep lines.”

“The rugged landscape was seamed with ancient dry riverbeds that glowed red in the setting sun.”