OVERLOCK Meaning and
Definition
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The term "overlock" refers to a sewing technique used to bind the raw edges of fabric together to prevent fraying. It involves the use of a specialized sewing machine known as an overlocker or serger that closely trims the fabric edges while simultaneously forming a series of stitches over the trimmed edge. This results in a neat and durable finish that secures the fabric edges and prevents them from unraveling.
The overlocker achieves this by incorporating multiple threads, typically two to four, which are used to create either a rolled hem or an overlock stitch. The threads loop around the fabric edge, encasing it entirely or partially, thus reinforcing the seam. Overlocking is commonly utilized in various sewing applications, including apparel manufacturing, home decor, and quilting.
The overlocking technique offers various advantages. Firstly, it provides a professional and finished appearance to the garment or fabric item. Moreover, it improves the longevity of the sewn piece by preventing the edges from fraying and unraveling over time. Additionally, overlocked seams tend to be more flexible, making them suitable for stretchy fabrics. This technique is also employed when sewing knit fabrics, as it helps maintain the elasticity of the material.
Overall, overlocking is a crucial sewing technique that adds strength and durability to fabric edges while giving them a clean, finished look. It enables sewers to create professional-quality garments and fabric products while ensuring longevity and preventing fraying.
Etymology of OVERLOCK
The word "overlock" has its etymology rooted in the textile industry. Its origins can be traced back to the late 19th century, specifically to the development of a particular type of sewing machine stitch used to finish the edges of fabric.
The term "overlock" comes from the combination of the words "over" and "lock". "Over" refers to the action of crossing over the edge of the fabric, while "lock" describes the interlocking of multiple threads to secure the edge and prevent fraying.
The overlock stitch was initially introduced by the Merrow Machine Company in 1881 with their patented Merrow Overlock Machine. This stitch became widely used in the garment industry to create neat and durable seam finishes, preventing fabric edges from unraveling.
Similar spelling words for OVERLOCK
- overloaded,
- overload,
- ovral,
- overleap,
- overall,
- overly,
- overholt,
- overleaf,
- overlay,
- overlooked,
- overlap,
- overlie,
- overlooking,
- overland,
- overlord,
- overlook.
Conjugate verb Overlock
CONDITIONAL
I
would overlock
you
would overlock
he/she/it
would overlock
we
would overlock
they
would overlock
CONDITIONAL CONTINUOUS
I
would be overlocking
you
would be overlocking
he/she/it
would be overlocking
we
would be overlocking
they
would be overlocking
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have overlock
you
would have overlock
he/she/it
would have overlock
we
would have overlock
they
would have overlock
CONDITIONAL PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
would have been overlocking
you
would have been overlocking
he/she/it
would have been overlocking
we
would have been overlocking
they
would have been overlocking
FUTURE
I
will overlock
you
will overlock
he/she/it
will overlock
we
will overlock
they
will overlock
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be overlocking
you
will be overlocking
he/she/it
will be overlocking
we
will be overlocking
they
will be overlocking
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have overlocked
you
will have overlocked
he/she/it
will have overlocked
we
will have overlocked
they
will have overlocked
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been overlocking
you
will have been overlocking
he/she/it
will have been overlocking
we
will have been overlocking
they
will have been overlocking
IMPERATIVE
you
overlock
we
let´s overlock
to overlock
PAST
I
overlocked
you
overlocked
he/she/it
overlocked
we
overlocked
they
overlocked
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was overlocking
you
were overlocking
he/she/it
was overlocking
we
were overlocking
they
were overlocking
PAST PARTICIPLE
overlocked
PAST PERFECT
I
had overlocked
you
had overlocked
he/she/it
had overlocked
we
had overlocked
they
had overlocked
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been overlocking
you
had been overlocking
he/she/it
had been overlocking
we
had been overlocking
they
had been overlocking
PRESENT
I
overlock
you
overlock
he/she/it
overlocks
we
overlock
they
overlock
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am overlocking
you
are overlocking
he/she/it
is overlocking
we
are overlocking
they
are overlocking
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
overlocking
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have overlocked
you
have overlocked
he/she/it
has overlocked
we
have overlocked
they
have overlocked
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been overlocking
you
have been overlocking
he/she/it
has been overlocking
we
have been overlocking
they
have been overlocking
