# sewn

/ˈsoʊn/ (US) · /sˈəʊn/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sewn
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the past form of 'sew'. It describes something that was joined together using a needle and thread.

For teachers: the past participle of 'sew'; refers to the act of joining or attaching fabrics or materials using a needle and thread.

## Examples

- The buttons are sewn onto the shirt.
- She wore a beautiful dress with intricate patterns sewn into the hem by hand.
- The historical tapestry, which had been sewn together by dozens of local artisans, was finally displayed in the city's main gallery to celebrate the anniversary.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The patch was sowed on." but "The patch was sewn on." — Learners often confuse 'sewn' (needle and thread) with 'sowed' (planting seeds).

## Usage notes

- Past participle of 'sew'. Often used in the passive voice or as a participial adjective to describe finished garments.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.