scissors
SIZ-erz
/ˈsɪzərz/
A hand-operated cutting instrument consisting of two blades joined at a pivot, with rings for the thumb and fingers.
Always used in the plural, even when referring to a single pair. Implies a precise, controlled cutting action for paper, fabric, or other thin materials.
The story behind the word. The word 'scissors' comes from the Old French cisoires, which itself derived from the Latin caedere, meaning 'to cut.' The plural form 'scissors' reflects the two blades that make up the tool. This ancient root clearly highlights the primary function of this indispensable cutting implement, whose design has remained remarkably consistent for centuries.
Word relationships
- shears: Larger, heavier cutting tools, often for gardening or heavy fabric.
Collocations
- pair of scissors
- blunt-nosed scissors
- sharp scissors
- paper scissors
- fabric scissors
Idioms & expressions
- cut with scissors
- run with scissors (to act recklessly)
Example sentences
- "She carefully used the scissors to cut out the intricate paper snowflake design." Crafts and hobbies
- "Could you please pass me the scissors? I need to open this package." Office tasks
Memory hook
Think of the 'S' sound in SCISSORS as the sound of the blades CUTTING. Two blades cut.
When not to use
For very thick materials (use shears or a utility knife) or for cutting large, straight lines (a paper cutter is more efficient).
Fun facts
- The earliest known scissors date back to ancient Mesopotamia around 1500 BC.
- The design of modern pivot scissors was invented by the Romans around 100 AD.
Related words
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