staple

¹sta·ple

noun \ˈstā-pəl\

Definition of STAPLE

: a usually U-shaped fastener: as a : a metal loop both ends of which are driven into a surface to hold the hook, hasp, or bolt of a lock, secure a rope, or fix a wire in place b : a small wire both ends of which are driven through layers of thin and easily penetrable material (as paper) and usually clinched to hold the layers together c : a usually metal surgical fastener used to hold layers of tissue together (as in the closure of an incision)

Origin of STAPLE

Middle English stapel post, staple, from Old English stapol post; akin to Middle Dutch stapel step, heap, emporium, Old English steppan to step

First Known Use: 13th century

Rhymes with STAPLE

maple, papal