English Reference
Noun

pliers

n.
B1 Intermediate US /ˈpɫaɪɝz/ UK /plˈaɪəz/ pli·ers

n.a tool with two metal jaws that you squeeze together to hold or cut things. You use it for fixing things or working with small parts.

n.a hand tool consisting of two pivoted jaws used for gripping, cutting, or bending materials. Often used in mechanical or electrical repair contexts.


SIMPLE

I need a pair of pliers to fix the broken wire.

CONTEXTUAL

The mechanic used pliers to remove the old bolts from the engine before installing the new parts.

COMPLEX

Precision pliers are essential for assembling delicate electronic components, as they allow for a firm grip without damaging the sensitive circuitry.


From ply (“to bend”) + -er + -s.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated