backstitch

[ bak-stich ]

/ ˈbækˌstɪtʃ /

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See synonyms for: backstitching on Thesaurus.com

noun

stitching or a stitch in which the thread is doubled back on the preceding stitch.

verb (used with or without object)

to sew by backstitch.

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Origin of backstitch

First recorded in 1605–15; back² + stitch

Words nearby backstitch

back-stabbing, back staff, backstage, backstairs, backstay, backstitch, backstop, backstory, back straight, backstrap loom, back street

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use backstitch in a sentence

This machine would make a good backstitch and sew a seam straight forward.
American Inventions and Inventors|William A. Mowry
Here each little diamond is worked in simple outline stitch, and each square outlined with backstitch.
Needlework Economies|Various
Backstitch across the bottom with a slanting line of stitches.
Clothing and Health|Helen Kinne
Insert one thickness between the other two ends, and backstitch closely.
Make Your Own Hats|Gene Allen Martin

Lap ends one-fourth inch and backstitch closely at each edge of flap.
Make Your Own Hats|Gene Allen Martin

British Dictionary definitions for backstitch

backstitch

/ (ˈbækˌstɪtʃ) /

noun

a strong sewing stitch made by starting the next stitch at the middle or beginning of the preceding one

verb

to sew using this stitch

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012