Tweezer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tweezer

[ˈtwiːzər ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

tool for gripping small objects

A tweezer is a small tool used for picking up or gripping small objects. It typically consists of two long, thin arms joined at one end and controlled by a spring mechanism. Tweezers are commonly used for tasks such as plucking eyebrows, removing splinters, or assembling delicate electronic components.

Synonyms

forceps, pincers, tongs.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tweezer	Used mainly in beauty and personal care for tasks like plucking eyebrows or removing small splinters. She used a tweezer to shape her eyebrows
pincers	Usually refers to a tool used in carpentry or mechanics for gripping, bending, or cutting wires and nails. May have a more rugged, industrial connotation. The carpenter used pincers to remove the nails from the wooden board
forceps	Commonly found in medical and scientific settings for gripping and holding objects. Often used in surgeries and experiments. The surgeon carefully removed the foreign object using forceps
tongs	Widely used in cooking and grilling to handle food. They can also be used in other contexts like handling hot objects or coals. She used tongs to turn the meat on the grill

Examples of usage

I used a tweezer to remove the splinter from my finger.
She carefully plucked her eyebrows with a tweezer.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

The oldest known tweezers date back to ancient Egypt, where they were crafted from metals like bronze.
In the 19th century, steel tweezers became common, showcasing advancements in materials and manufacturing.

Pop Culture

In the world of beauty, tweezers took center stage in the 1920s when eyebrow shaping became a fashion trend.
You might spot tweezers in medical shows; surgeons often use them in operating rooms to handle delicate tasks.

Science

Tweezers are used in laboratories to handle small samples, helping scientists conduct experiments without contamination.
In robotics, tweezers-like mechanisms are utilized in tiny robotic arms for precise handling of miniature components.

Everyday Use

Besides beauty, tweezers are used in crafting, like picking up beads or small parts when making jewelry.
Many people keep tweezers in their first-aid kits to help remove splinters or ticks safely.

Origin of 'tweezer'

Main points about word origin

The word 'tweezer' is believed to come from the 16th century, derived from the Middle French word 'tesor', which means 'to pinch'.
In earlier times, similar tools were used for various purposes, meaning the concept of tweezers has been around for hundreds of years.

The word 'tweezer' originated from the French word 'etwee', which means a small case or sheath. It was first used in the English language in the 17th century to refer to small pincers or pliers. Over time, the spelling evolved to 'tweezer' to describe the tool we now commonly use for gripping small objects.