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

James said Willis brings "a wealth of presenting experience and a natural warmth", while Widdicombe "had us all in stitches with his unique style of self-deprecating humour and razor-sharp wit".

From BBC • May 19, 2026

Inside the ornate Bovard Auditorium, Larry David kept a full audience in stitches as he discussed the creation and legacy of his improv hit, “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” which concluded in 2024 after 12 seasons.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

Then we're the ones who miss out when we don't wait, because Phoebe was the one who had everybody in stitches every day.

From Salon • Nov. 22, 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

He had the crowd in stitches even though he was telling the story of how his whole town had been slowly swallowed by the sea.

From "Two Degrees" by Alan Gratz