seamstress

American  

[seem-stris, sem-] / ˈsim strɪs, ˈsɛm- /

noun

1. a woman whose occupation is sewing.

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seamstress British  

/ ˈsɛmpstrɪs, ˈsɛmstrɪs /

noun

1. a woman who sews and makes clothes, esp professionally

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Gender

See -ess.

Etymology

Origin of seamstress

First recorded in 1605–15; seamst(e)r + -ess

Explanation

A seamstress is a person whose job involves sewing clothing. You could be a seamstress if you hem your own pants, but most seamstresses work in factories sewing garments using sewing machines. Traditionally, a seamstress was a woman who sewed seams in clothes using a machine, or occasionally by hand. Seamstresses weren't considered as skilled as a dressmaker, who makes custom clothing, or a tailor, who alters clothes to fit a specific person. Each of these titles is a distinct job, but they are commonly used interchangeably. Some people use the newer, unisex term sewist instead of seamstress.

Example Sentences

The cost of making the face coverings, which includes materials as well as the seamstress’ labor, has come from personal donations.

From Washington Post • Apr. 9, 2020

The origins of manufacturing here stretch back to the late 1800s, when a Dalton seamstress’ bedspreads morphed into mass production of carpets, and blue-collar work grew plentiful.

From Time • May 31, 2017

So every morning Dora sat on the school-bench studying diligently, and every afternoon on a little chair close to the seamstress' knee, sewing on a big shirt that made her very warm and uncomfortable.

From Uncle Titus and His Visit to the Country by Spyri, Johanna

There was something in this wide-eyed pale little seamstress' command that was unlike anything they had ever heard.

From Little Miss By-The-Day by Van Slyke, Lucille

The idea of this coming freedom almost overcame her with its bewildering delight, after all those long, long days in the seamstress' little, stifling room.

From Uncle Titus and His Visit to the Country by Spyri, Johanna