whipstitch

American  

[hwip-stich, wip-] / ˈʰwɪpˌstɪtʃ, ˈwɪp- /

verb (used with object)

1. to sew with stitches passing over an edge, in joining, finishing, or gathering.

---

noun

1. one such stitch.

idioms

1. every whipstitch, at short intervals.

   She drops in to see us every whipstitch.

whipstitch British  

/ ˈwɪpˌstɪtʃ /

noun

1. a sewing stitch passing over an edge

2. slang an instant; moment

---

verb

1. (tr) to sew (an edge) using whipstitch; overcast

Etymology

Origin of whipstitch

First recorded in 1585–95; whip + stitch

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

whipstitch

“He brought me on to create his favorite elastic-waist merino wool jogger pants, his favorite T-shirt with a perfect little whipstitch pink detail on the back,” she said.

From New York Times ● Aug. 26, 2021

Either by hand, using a whipstitch every ¼ inch, or with a sewing machine, sew around the perimeter of the patch to reinforce it.

From New York Times ● Jun. 9, 2020

It was hand-sewn with a whipstitch using natural thread.

From Washington Post ● Sep. 14, 2016

The C Collection: A New Direction for Cobian *Rodeo: Denim details show up in sandals, with contrasting whipstitch trim and an embroidered logo.

From Time Magazine Archive

Because of the ladder, we took it easy and rested every whipstitch.

From "The Teacher’s Funeral" by Richard Peck