paper clip

noun

: a length of wire bent into flat loops that is used to hold papers together

Examples of paper clip in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fatigue damage is the bridge version of bending a paper clip back and forth. Alex Krasnok, Scientific American, 25 June 2026 Fatigue damage is the bridge version of bending a paper clip back and forth. Alex Krasnok, Fortune, 21 June 2026 Fatigue damage is the bridge version of bending a paper clip back and forth. Alex Krasnok, The Conversation, 19 June 2026 Although basic, anyone who works from home will need essentials, including pens, pencils, paper, a stapler, a desk calendar, and paper clips. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for paper clip

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paper clip was in 1851

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Paper clip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paper%20clip. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

paper clip

noun
: a length of wire bent into flat loops that is used to hold papers together
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