Forceps

Forceps are a hand-held instrument used for grasping and holding objects, similar in concept to tongs, tweezers or pincers. They have a locking mechanism to ensure they do not squeeze too tightly onto the object they are used on.

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They are sometimes used in surgery or medical procedures, especially during labour in pregnancy where they are common for assisting childbirth.

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The word is a "binary noun", in that while it takes the plural form, it refers to a single object. Like scissors or spectacles, it does not have a strictly singular form, and may be referred to as "a pair of" forceps.

Related Topics:
Scissors - Spectacles

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