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.

---

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

All of that set the stage for Barkley’s diatribe, which had the ex-Laker O’Neal in stitches by the midway point.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 7, 2025

"Jon was an interesting and thoughtful person, he had some stunning dramatic performances on stage and on screen and the country is still in stitches from the magic that was D'Unbelievables."

From BBC • Nov. 16, 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

That’s where Redd Foxx was the dishwasher who kept the kitchen crew in stitches.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey