the edge of a piece of cloth or clothing that has been turned under and sewn

the hem of her dress

she took up the hem

turn under and sew the edge of (a piece of cloth)

she began to hem a border

used in writing to indicate a sound made when coughing or clearing the throat to attract attention or to express hesitation

make a sound in the throat when hesitating or as a signal

Jane, if any one is about, come to the foot of the stairs and hem