IN STITCHES Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "in stitches" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a person who is laughing uncontrollably or hysterically. It refers to a state of intense amusement or hilarity, often resulting in physical signs such as holding the sides, doubling over, or clutching the stomach due to the prolonged laughter. "In stitches" implies that the laughter is so overwhelming that it feels as though one's body is being drawn together or sewn up.
The term originates from the practice of suturing wounds with stitches. In this context, stitches are used to hold the skin together, ensuring proper healing. When someone laughs so hard that they are "in stitches," it is metaphorically likened to their body being sutured due to the pain inflicted by the uproarious laughter. The phrase vividly captures the idea of someone being unable to control their laughter, to the point where it feels as though their body is being sewn together to contain the overwhelming hilarity.
Being "in stitches" is often accompanied by tears, aching sides, and struggling to breathe due to the intensity of the amusement. The phrase frequently denotes a high level of entertainment or something amusingly unexpected that triggers a strong reaction. It conveys the sense of finding something so funny that it becomes difficult to regain composure. Whether it arises from a joke, a humorous situation, or comedy performance, being "in stitches" implies that the laughter is immense and all-consuming, resulting in a temporary loss of control and a memorable, joyous experience.
Common Misspellings for IN STITCHES
- un stitches
- jn stitches
- kn stitches
- on stitches
- 9n stitches
- 8n stitches
- ib stitches
- im stitches
- ij stitches
- ih stitches
- in atitches
- in ztitches
- in xtitches
- in dtitches
- in etitches
- in wtitches
- in sritches
- in sfitches
- in sgitches
- in syitches
- institches
Etymology of IN STITCHES
The phrase "in stitches" dates back to at least the 17th century. It combines the word "stitch", which has its origins in Old English and refers to a sharp pain typically caused by a sudden movement, with the preposition "in".
Originally, "in stitches" was used to describe the physical act of sewing, particularly when one's clothing or fabric was sewn in such a way that it restricted movement and caused pain or discomfort. Over time, however, the phrase evolved to take on a figurative meaning.
By the 20th century, "in stitches" came to be used to describe a different type of pain - that caused by excessive laughter. The notion behind this evolution was that laughter could cause a similar physical reaction to the sharp pain associated with stitches, leading to the adoption of "in stitches" to mean "in fits of uncontrollable laughter".
Idioms with the word IN STITCHES
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have sb in stitches
The idiom "have sb in stitches" means to make someone laugh uncontrollably or to cause someone to burst into fits of laughter.
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keep in stitches
The idiom "keep in stitches" means to make someone laugh uncontrollably or to keep someone constantly amused or entertained. It implies that something or someone is so hilarious or entertaining that it brings about frequent fits of laughter.
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keep sm in stitches
The idiom "keep someone in stitches" means to make someone laugh a lot or keep them entertained with humorous remarks, jokes, or amusing anecdotes. It implies that someone is really funny and continuously brings laughter and joy to others.
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have (one) in stitches
The idiom "have (one) in stitches" means to cause someone to laugh uncontrollably or to find something extremely amusing.
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in stitches
"In stitches" is an idiom that means laughing uncontrollably or in a hysterical manner. It is often used to describe a situation or joke that is extremely funny and causes someone to laugh so hard that they are physically unable to stop.
Similar spelling words for IN STITCHES
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