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

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

Doctors grabbed the leech with forceps and carefully removed the animal, now nearly 4 inches long after feeding on the man’s blood supply for at least a week, according to the report. —Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2025

This week, Kieran goes in with the forceps and scalpel to shape Playboi Carti’s new 30-track behemoth, Music, into something closer to a perfect album. March 19, 2025 Illustration by Chris Panicker. —Kieran Press-Reynolds, Pitchfork, 19 Mar. 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)