English

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A pair of jeweller’s pliers

Pronunciation

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  • (UK) IPA(key): /ˈplaɪ.ə(ɹ)z/
  • Audio (US):(file)
  • Rhymes: -aɪə(ɹ)z

Etymology 1

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From ply (to bend) +‎ -ers.

Noun

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pliers pl (plural only)

  1. A pincer-like gripping tool that multiplies the strength of the user's hand, often used for bending things.
    I need a pair of pliers to get a good grip on that broken screw.
Usage notes
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  • To make clear the quantity under discussion, the expressions "a pair of pliers" or "(however many) pairs of pliers" can be used.
  • "A pliers" is somewhat awkward, though accepted in American English.
Derived terms
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Descendants
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  • Cebuano: playis
  • Tagalog: plais
  • Tok Pisin: plais
  • Yakan: palayes
Translations
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See also
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Etymology 2

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Noun

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pliers

  1. plural of plier

Anagrams

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