v.tr. (past part. sewn or sewed) 1 (also absol.) fasten, join, etc., by making stitches with a needle and thread or a sewing-machine. 2 make (a garment etc.) by sewing. 3 (often foll. by on, in, etc.) attach by sewing (shall I sew on your buttons?). sew up 1 join or enclose by sewing. 2 colloq. (esp. in passive) satisfactorily arrange or finish dealing with (a project etc.). 3 esp. US obtain exclusive use of. sewer n.
[ OE si(o)wan ]