How to Pronounce "come apart at the seams"
expression
KUHM uh-PART at thuh SEEMZ
KUM uh-PAHT at thuh SEEMZ
Definition
To start breaking down physically or mentally, or to be close to failing completely, like a fabric coming unstitched. Used literally for objects and figuratively for people, organizations, or situations.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈkəm/ /əˈpɑɹt/ /ˈæt/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈsimz
British English
kˈʌm/ /ɐpˈɑːt/ /ˈæt/ /ðə, ði/ /sˈiːmz
Simplified Pronunciation
US
KUHM uh-PART at thuh SEEMZ
UK
KUM uh-PAHT at thuh SEEMZ
Listen in Context
After years of use, the old jacket finally came apart at the seams.
During the meeting, it was clear the team was about to come apart at the seams.
My shoes came apart at the seams after walking in the rain.
Everyone is so stressed lately—it feels like the whole office is coming apart at the seams.