• Pliers

    Pronunciation

    • UK IPA: /ˈplaɪ.É™(ɹ)z/
    • Rhymes: -aɪə(ɹ)z

    Origin

    From ply("to bend") + -er, plural of -er.

    Full definition of pliers

    Noun

    pliers

    (plural only)
    1. A gripping tool that multiplies the strength of the user's handI need a pair of pliers to get a good grip on that broken screw.
    2. Plural of plier

    Usage notes

    To make clear the quantity under discussion clearer, 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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