scissors

noun

scis·​sors ˈsi-zərz 

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

1

: a cutting instrument having two blades whose cutting edges slide past each other

2

a

: a gymnastic feat in which the leg movements suggest the opening and closing of scissors

b

: scissors hold

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

When veneering over the miter joints at the upper corners of the bookcase, trim the veneer to 45 degrees with scissors. —Joseph Truini, Popular Mechanics, 24 Jan. 2023

Just note that, as with other jute options, shedding is normal: make sure to trim any loose fibers with scissors, and keep the rug (and the area under it) clean by vacuuming on a regular basis. —Lily Sperry, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Dec. 2022

Colored leathers and threads on spools line the walls, and each work station has a small bag with the scissors, paint brushes, sewing kits and detailing tools the artisans use. —Dallas News, 14 Oct. 2022

Cut bacon slices into 1-inch pieces (easiest with scissors). —Hannah Goldfield, The New Yorker, 22 Sep. 2022

Actress Katharine Ross has obtained a restraining order against her daughter, Cleo Rose Elliott, after the young woman repeatedly stabbed her in the arm with scissors, according to court documents. —Howard Breuer, Peoplemag, 22 Sep. 2022

Hempel Irani toyed with scissors, before remembering a favorite photo of the designer, posed with fabric arranged on a dress form. —John Kelly, Washington Post, 17 Sep. 2022

Fringe the sides of the cat's face and the top of its head with scissors. —Jessica Leigh Mattern, Country Living, 24 Aug. 2022

The clothes could be cut with scissors along lines of demarcation. —Elizabeth Paton, New York Times, 9 Aug. 2022

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Word History

Etymology

Middle English cisours, sisoures, from Middle French cisoires, from Vulgar Latin *caesorium (singular) cutting instrument, from Latin caedere to cut

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing scissors

• scissors-and-paste
• scissors kick
• scissors hold

• scissors-and-paste
• scissors kick
• scissors hold

Kids Definition

scissors

noun singular or plural

scis·​sors ˈsiz-ərz 

1

: a cutting instrument having two blades whose cutting edges slide past each other

2

: a gymnastic feat in which the leg movements suggest the opening and closing of scissors

Medical Definition

scissors

noun, plural in form but singular or plural in construction

scis·​sors ˈsiz-ərz 

: a cutting instrument having two blades whose cutting edges slide past each other