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

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 hold
• scissors kick

Kids Definition

scissors

singular or plural noun

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