Main Entry:

for·ceps

Pronunciation:

\ˈfȯr-səps, -ˌseps\

Function:

noun

Inflected Form(s):

plural forceps

Etymology:

Latin, tongs, perhaps from formus warm + capere to take — more at therm, heave

Date:

1634

: an instrument for grasping, holding firmly, or exerting traction upon objects especially for delicate operations (as by jewelers or surgeons)

— for·ceps·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective

[forceps illustration]