pincer
Pincer (noun) means one half of a gripping claw or tool, or (in plural) the tool or claw itself. Example: “The crab snapped its pincer shut around the bait.”
How to use pincer
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA gripping claw (like a crab's), or a military move that attacks from both sides.
Word forms
pincered past tense, pincers plural, pincers singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The crab snapped its _____ shut around the bait.
Etymology
From Old French pincier, "to pinch."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “pincer” mean?
The word “pincer” means one half of a gripping claw or tool, or (in plural) the tool or claw itself. In plain terms, a gripping claw (like a crab's), or a military move that attacks from both sides.
How do you pronounce “pincer”?
“Pincer” is pronounced PIHN-suhr (/ˈpɪnsəɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “pincer” in a sentence?
Here is “pincer” used in a sentence: “The crab snapped its pincer shut around the bait.”
What part of speech is “pincer”?
Depending on how it is used, “pincer” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “pincer” come from?
The word “pincer” comes from Old French. From Old French pincier, "to pinch.".
How many meanings does “pincer” have?
“Pincer” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: one half of a gripping claw or tool, or (in plural) the tool or claw itself.