burst at the seams

phrase

: to be larger, fuller, or more crowded than could reasonably have been anticipated

Examples of burst at the seams in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And what’s better viewing for a film club built on curiosity than a tale about a club bursting at the seams with curiosity? — Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 21 Aug. 2026 Before your tiny purse bursts at the seams, make the switch to one of these roomier bags on Amazon, starting at $15. — Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 15 Aug. 2026 Panama City’s historic center, Casco Viejo, bursts at the seams with cool restaurants, shops, and bars along cobblestone streets. — Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of burst at the seams was in 1902

Rhymes for burst at the seams

See All Rhymes for burst at the seams

Browse Nearby Words

burst
burst at the seams
bursten
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Burst at the seams.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burst%20at%20the%20seams. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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