scissors
Americannoun
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(used with a singular or plural verb) a cutting instrument for paper, cloth, etc., consisting of two blades, each having a ring-shaped handle, that are so pivoted together that their sharp edges work one against the other (often used withpair of ).
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(used with a singular verb) any of several feats in which the legs execute a scissorlike motion.
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(used with a singular verb) a hold secured by clasping the legs around the body or head of the opponent.
plural noun
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Also called: pair of scissors. a cutting instrument used for cloth, hair, etc, having two crossed pivoted blades that cut by a shearing action, with ring-shaped handles at one end
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a wrestling hold in which a wrestler wraps his legs round his opponent's body or head, locks his feet together, and squeezes
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any gymnastic or athletic feat in which the legs cross and uncross in a scissor-like movement
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athletics a technique in high-jumping, now little used, in which the legs perform a scissor-like movement in clearing the bar
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of scissors
1350–1400; Middle English cisoures, sisoures < Middle French cisoires < Medieval Latin *cīsōria, plural of Late Latin cīsōrium cutting tool ( see chisel); current spelling by association with Latin scindere to cut (past participle scīssus ), Medieval Latin scīssor tailor
Vocabulary lists containing scissors
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It was as if she had abstracted herself from scissors and spectators, projecting not so much courage as strength.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 21, 2026
Under normal conditions, EXO1 functions like a pair of molecular scissors, helping trim and repair damaged DNA.
From Science Daily ● Jun. 20, 2026
There is some debate over what to call Bianco’s mustache, which he said he grooms himself with scissors.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 27, 2026
Adams’s process for designing his own products is decidedly analog: He uses scissors, cardboard and tape to make models.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 18, 2026
Mrs. Priest hands me a giant pair of scissors, and me and Mama cut the bow together.
From "Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero" by Kelly J. Baptist
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
