1. To close an open wound in a person with stitches. We have to sew him up quickly after we're done repairing the bone. It turns out the doctors left a sponge inside my abdomen before sewing me back up.

2. To close one or multiple openings in something by sewing, especially in an attempt to repair or mend it. I had to use fishing line to sew up the hole in the sail. Would you mind sewing these pants up for me?

3. To successfully conclude or settle some dealing, activity, or endeavor. I was finally able to sew the contract up with the other firm. She seems to have sewn up a victory in the last days of the election.

4. To gain and maintain total control over something. There have been a few rival companies, but most would agree that they've sewn up the market at this point.