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ply1 definition

ply (plī)

transitive verb plied, plying ply′·ing

Now Rare to bend, twist, fold, or mold

Etymology: ME plien < OFr plier < L plicare, to fold < IE base *plek-, to entwine > flax

intransitive verb

Obsolete to bend or submit

noun pl. plies

  1. a single thickness, fold, or layer, as of doubled cloth, plywood, etc.
  2. one of the twisted strands in rope, yarn, etc.
    1. the state of being bent or twisted
    2. bias or inclination

Etymology: MFr pli < the v.

adjective

having (a specified number of) layers, thicknesses, or strands: usually in hyphenated compounds three-ply
ply2 definition

ply (plī)

transitive verb plied, plying ply′·ing

  1. to do work with; wield or use (a tool, faculty, etc.), esp. with energy
  2. to work at (a trade)
  3. to address (someone) urgently and constantly (with questions, etc.)
  4. to keep supplying (with gifts, food, drink, etc.)
  5. to sail regularly back and forth across boats ply the channel

Etymology: ME plien, aphetic for applien, apply

intransitive verb

  1. to keep busy or work (at something or with a tool, etc.)
  2. to travel regularly (between places): said of ships, buses, etc.
  3. Old Poet. to steer a course

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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