in stitches

Idioms  

1. Laughing uncontrollably, as in Joke after joke had me in stitches. Although the precise idiom dates only from about 1930, Shakespeare had a similar expression in Twelfth Night (3:2): “If you desire the spleen, and will laugh yourselves into stitches, follow me.” Stitches here refers to the sharp local pain (known as a stitch in the side) that can make one double over, much as a fit of laughter can.

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Example Sentences

The family’s legislative contributions run broad and deep, with programs and initiatives that have woven themselves into the fabric of our national life in stitches both large and small.

From Salon • Jan. 4, 2026

“Her ‘German’ accent had us all in stitches!

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 30, 2024

For a show that has its audience in stitches, “Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha” is not without solemnity.

From New York Times • May 21, 2024

Not really known for having a sense of humor, the prime minister kept the nearly 400 guests in stitches as he toasted Biden and first lady Jill Biden before dinner was served.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 22, 2023

One night long ago, he had kept Manolo and me, as well as Elsa, in stitches with tales of his journalistic escapades.

From "In the Time of the Butterflies" by Julia Alvarez