forceps

[ fawr-suhps, -seps ]

noun

, plural for·ceps, for·ci·pes [fawr, -s, uh, -peez].

1. an instrument, as pincers or tongs, for seizing and holding objects, as in surgical operations.
2. Anatomy, Zoology. a part or feature resembling a forceps, especially a pair of appendages at the posterior of certain insects.

forceps

/ ˈfɔːsɪps /

noun

1. 1. a surgical instrument in the form of a pair of pincers, used esp in the delivery of babies
   2. ( as modifier )

      a forceps baby

2. any pincer-like instrument
3. any part or structure of an organism shaped like a forceps

Derived Forms

• ˈforceps-ˌlike, adjective

Other Words From

• forceps·like adjective
• for·cip·i·al [fawr-, sip, -ee-, uh, l], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of forceps¹

1625–35; < Latin: pair of tongs, pincers, said to be a contraction of *formiceps, equivalent to form ( us ) warm + -i- -i- + -ceps -taker, derivative of capere to take ( prince ), i.e., that which takes hot things; compare, however, forpex, forfex tongs, shears, from which forceps may have been formed by folk etymology

Word History and Origins

Origin of forceps¹

C17: from Latin, from formus hot + capere to seize

Example Sentences

Forceps were used to remove a tampon which had become wedged inside Ms Hand's vagina.

From BBC

Estimates vary but around 50% of people who have had babies experience some degree of prolapse and the use of forceps or a vacuum during birth increases the risk.

From Salon

Smithy distracted himself as he bent the iron rod with a pair of forceps.

From Literature

The pulmonologist sent a fibreoptic bronchoscope - a tiny camera with forceps - down her airway.

From BBC

A cutdown involves an incision, then the use of forceps to pull tissue away from an interior vein.

From Seattle Times