wire
Wire (noun) means a thin, flexible strand of metal, used to carry electricity or for fastening, fencing, and similar purposes. Example: “A loose wire was causing the lamp to flicker.”
How to Use Wire
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA thin metal strand — or, as a verb, to connect with wires, or to send money electronically.
In finance, "wire" as a verb (to wire money) is common in American English; British English more often says "transfer."
Word Forms
wired past tense, Wires plural, wires singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
A loose _____ was causing the lamp to flicker.
Etymology
From Old English wīr, "metal thread," from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning "to twist or turn."
Related Words
Rhymes for wire
See all rhymes for wire →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “wire” mean?
The word “wire” means a thin, flexible strand of metal, used to carry electricity or for fastening, fencing, and similar purposes. In plain terms, a thin metal strand — or, as a verb, to connect with wires, or to send money electronically.
How do you pronounce “wire”?
“Wire” is pronounced weye-uh (/ˈwaɪɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “wire” in a sentence?
Here is “wire” used in a sentence: “A loose wire was causing the lamp to flicker.”
What is another word for “wire”?
Words with a similar meaning to “wire” include telegraph.
What is the opposite of “wire”?
The opposite of “wire” — its antonyms — is unwire.
What part of speech is “wire”?
Depending on how it is used, “wire” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “wire” come from?
The word “wire” comes from Old English. From Old English wīr, "metal thread," from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning "to twist or turn.".
Is “wire” a common word?
“Wire” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between wire and cable?
A wire is a single, thin strand of metal that conducts electricity or provides fastening. A cable is usually two or more wires bundled together inside protective insulation. In short, a wire is one conductor, while a cable is a group of them working as a unit, though people often use the words loosely.
What are the different types of wire?
Wire is classified in several ways. By material, common types include copper, aluminium, and steel. By construction, it can be solid (one strand) or stranded (many thin strands twisted together). By use, there's electrical wire, fencing and barbed wire, jewellery wire, and welding wire, among many others.
What is wire made of?
Most wire is made from metal drawn out into a thin, flexible strand. Copper is the most common for electrical uses because it conducts electricity so well, while aluminium is a lighter, cheaper alternative. Steel and iron are chosen where strength matters, such as fencing, springs, and load-bearing cables.