noun
vise
vys
Vise (noun) means a tool with two jaws tightened by a screw or lever, used to hold an object firmly in place while it is worked on. Example: “He clamped the wood in a vise before sawing it.”
noun
1
A tool with two jaws tightened by a screw or lever, used to hold an object firmly in place while it is worked on.
"He clamped the wood in a vise before sawing it."
2
A situation that leaves someone with very little freedom to choose or move.
"Debt had put the small business in a financial vise."
How to use vise
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA clamping tool used in workshops, or, figuratively, a tight, restrictive situation.
UK vs US
This is the American spelling; British English usually spells it "vice" for the tool.
Common pairings
a vise grip
clamp in a vise
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Word forms
- Plural
- vises
- Third person singular
- vises
- Past tense
- vised
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He clamped the wood in a _____ before sawing it.
Etymology
From Old French vis, "screw," ultimately from Latin vitis, "vine" — likely referencing the spiral shape of a screw thread.
Synonyms
View more →
bench vise
vice
Related words
Rhymes for vise
See all rhymes for vise →Frequently asked questions
What does “vise” mean?
The word “vise” means a tool with two jaws tightened by a screw or lever, used to hold an object firmly in place while it is worked on. In plain terms, a clamping tool used in workshops, or, figuratively, a tight, restrictive situation.
How do you pronounce “vise”?
“Vise” is pronounced vys (/vaɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “vise” in a sentence?
Here is “vise” used in a sentence: “He clamped the wood in a vise before sawing it.”
What part of speech is “vise”?
“Vise” is a noun.
Where does the word “vise” come from?
The word “vise” comes from Latin. From Old French vis, "screw," ultimately from Latin vitis, "vine" — likely referencing the spiral shape of a screw thread.
How many meanings does “vise” have?
“Vise” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a tool with two jaws tightened by a screw or lever, used to hold an object firmly in place while it is worked on.
