seam 
/ˈsi:m/ noun
plural seams /ˈsi:m/ noun [count] 1 a : a line where two pieces of cloth or other material are sewn together
▪ the seams of a dress
b : a line where two pieces of wood, metal, dough, etc., are joined together
▪ the seams of a boat 2 technical : a layer of coal, rock, etc., that is between two other layers of rock underground
▪ coal seams ▪ a rich seam of iron ore — sometimes used figuratively to describe a good source of something valuable ▪ The book is a rich seam of information about the history of baseball.
▪ the seams of a dress
b : a line where two pieces of wood, metal, dough, etc., are joined together
▪ the seams of a boat
▪ coal seams ▪ a rich seam of iron ore — sometimes used figuratively to describe a good source of something valuable ▪ The book is a rich seam of information about the history of baseball.
be bursting at the seams — see 1burst
come/fall apart at the seams
informal : to break into parts or pieces — usually used figuratively to describe someone or something that is in very bad condition ▪ The plan/company is falling apart at the seams. ▪ She looks like she's going to come apart at the seams.
