1. the edge of a piece of cloth that is folded over and sewn down

1. to fold and sew the edge of cloth
2. to surround or enclose something

1. used to get someone’s attention or to express hesitation
Usage: often used as ‘hem and haw’

Examples

• The hem of her dress was coming undone.
• She hemmed the curtains to make them shorter.
• The tailor will hem your pants for free.
• Mountains hem the valley on all sides.
• The protesters hemmed in the building.
• He hemmed and hawed before giving his answer.
• Hem! May I have your attention please?