Meaning & Definition of word "Plier"
Plier
/ˈplaɪ.ər/
noun:
- 1. A hand tool used for gripping, bending, or cutting wire and other materials.
- Example: She used a pair of pliers to remove the old nails from the wooden board.
- 2. A device that consists of two levers joined at a fulcrum that allows for the application of force to bend or cut materials.
- Example: The electrician reached for his pliers to strip the insulation off the wires.
- 3. Pincers or tongs used in various applications, including the kitchen or surgery.
- Example: He grabbed the hot pan off the stove with a pair of kitchen pliers.
Etymology
●From the Middle English 'plieren', derived from 'pleier' or 'pliere', meaning to fold or bend.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pliers in hand:
Being prepared to deal with a situation.
give someone the pliers:
To apply pressure or force on someone to make them comply.
bent out of shape:
Distorted or not functioning correctly, as if forced with pliers.
Related Words
wrench:
A tool used to grip and turn objects, typically a nut or bolt.
screwdriver:
A tool used for turning screws, with a flat or Phillips head.
Slang Meanings of plier
Meaning: To manipulate or forcefully handle something.
● Example Sentence: He pliers-ed the situation until he got what he wanted.
Meaning: To make something work or fit by brute force.
● Example Sentence: She just pliers-ed that piece into place.