scissor

scissor


scis·sor    Audio Help   (sĭz'ər)   

tr.v.   scis·sored, scis·sor·ing, scis·sors
To cut or clip with scissors or shears.
n.  
  1. scissors (used with a sing. or pl. verb) A cutting implement consisting of two blades joined by a swivel pin that allows the cutting edges to be opened and closed.

  2. scissors (used with a sing. verb) Sports

    1. Any of various gymnastic exercises or jumps in which the movement of the legs suggests the opening and closing of scissors.

    2. A scissors hold.


[From alteration (influenced by Latin scissor, cutter) of Middle English sisours, scissors, from Old French cisoires, from Vulgar Latin *cīsōria, from Late Latin, pl. of cīsōrium, cutting instrument, from Latin caesus, -cīsus, past participle of caedere, to cut; see kaə-id- in Indo-European roots.]
(Download Now or Buy the Book)
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.