hem

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B1 — Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun the edge of a piece of cloth; especially the finished edge that has been doubled under and stitched down
noun the utterance of a sound similar to clearing the throat; intended to get attention, express hesitancy, fill a pause, hide embarrassment, warn a friend, etc.
verb fold over and sew together to provide with a hem

A sound uttered in imitation of clearing the throat (onomatopoeia)

Plain Gingham With a Hem. — The best short stories of 1919, and the yearbook of the American short story, Unknown
“Hem bow goy,” suggested Verman eagerly. — Penrod, Booth Tarkington
‘“Hem!” said the baron, stopping short. — Nicholas Nickleby, Charles Dickens

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