forceps

noun

for·​ceps ˈfȯr-səps  -ˌseps 

plural forceps

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

forcepslike

ˈfȯr-səps-ˌlīk 

-ˌseps-

adjective

Illustration of forceps

Examples of forceps in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The duration and intensity of this type of therapy can vary based on whether or not there was a traumatic delivery—for example, if there was third- or fourth-degree tearing that needed to be repaired, or an assisted delivery with forceps—as well as how many children someone has had. —Jana Pollack, Parents, 2 Dec. 2025

After making sure the bird could breathe, sanctuary workers spent days cracking apart the concrete using forceps and cleaning its feathers using toothbrushes, dish soap and their fingers. —CBS News, 19 Nov. 2025

Some people think forceps by doctors delivering babies in the ‘50s caused brain damage in infants. —Time, 10 June 2025

Frescoes illuminate women’s daily rituals like hairstyling, while objects like a speculum, forceps and children’s toys suggest the central role of motherhood. —Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, tongs, perhaps from formus warm + capere to take — more at therm, heave entry 1

First Known Use

1634, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

forceps

noun

for·​ceps ˈfȯr-səps 

-ˌseps

plural forceps

: a tool for grasping or holding objects especially in delicate operations (as by a jeweler or surgeon)

forcepslike

-ˌlīk 

adjective

Medical Definition

forceps

noun

for·​ceps ˈfȯr-səps  -ˌseps 

plural forceps

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