Forceps Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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forceps

[ˈfɔːr.sɛps ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical instrument

Forceps are a handheld, hinged instrument used for grasping and holding objects. They are commonly used in medical procedures, such as surgery and childbirth.

Synonyms

clamps, pliers, tweezers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
forceps

Used in medical or surgical settings to grip or hold objects. They come in various shapes and sizes depending on their specific medical use.

  • The surgeon used forceps to remove the foreign object from the patient's wound.
  • Dental forceps are commonly used for extracting teeth.
tweezers

Small hand tool used for picking up and handling very small objects. Commonly used in beauty care, electronics, and delicate crafts.

  • He used tweezers to remove the splinter from his finger.
  • Cosmetologists often use tweezers to shape eyebrows.
pliers

General tool used for gripping, bending, and manipulating various materials. Often found in toolboxes for household repairs, electrical work, and other manual tasks.

  • She used pliers to tighten the bolt on the bicycle.
  • Electricians often carry pliers to strip and cut wires.
clamps

Used to hold or compress objects tightly together in various fields such as medical procedures, construction, or crafting.

  • The carpenter used clamps to hold the pieces of wood together while the glue dried.
  • During the heart surgery, the doctor applied clamps to control blood flow.

Examples of usage

  • During the surgery, the surgeon used forceps to carefully remove the foreign object.
  • The doctor used forceps to assist in the delivery of the baby.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'forceps'

The word 'forceps' originated from Latin 'forcipem,' which means a pair of tongs or pincers. The concept of forceps dates back to ancient civilizations, where various forms of grasping tools were used for different purposes. Over time, forceps evolved into the specialized medical instrument we know today, designed for precision and safety in delicate procedures.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,807, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.