pincers Hear it!

pincers Definition

pin·cers (pin′sərz)

  1. a tool with two parts pivoted together to form two handles and two jaws, used in gripping or nipping things
  2. Zool. a grasping claw, as of a crab or lobster; chela

Etymology: ME pinsours < OFr pincier, to pinch

pincers Related Forms
pin′·cer·like′ adjective
pincers Synonyms

pincers

n.

pinchers, pair of pincers, wrench, pliers, nippers, tongs, instrument, tweezers, grippers, wire cutters; see also tool 1.

pincers Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • have: They have two huge pincers at the front plus four hairy legs on either side.
  • form: Bonfinius describes a Hungarian battle formation called the scorpion where infantry formed its body and the warwagons and cavalry formed the pincers.
  • lack: Thoracic limbs lack pincers, branched and fringed with hairs, and mainly used for swimming.

Adjective modifier

  • large: In the large pincers, one claw becomes larger and fatter, and more solid for crushing.
  • hot: However St Dunstan spotted the cloven hooves beneath the dress, and grabbed the devil's nose with his red hot pincers!
  • red: However St Dunstan spotted the cloven hooves beneath the dress, and grabbed the devil's nose with his red hot pincers!
  • strong: The palps are always greatly enlarged, with the terminal segments modified into strong pincers used for catching and crushing prey.