braces

American  

[brey-siz] / ˈbreɪ sɪz /

plural noun

1. Orthodontics. brace.

2. Chiefly British. suspenders.

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braces British  

/ ˈbreɪsɪz /

plural noun

1. US and Canadian word: suspenders.  a pair of straps worn over the shoulders by men for holding up the trousers

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Explanation

Braces are put on your teeth to help straighten them. Braces are most often seen on kids between the ages of nine and fourteen, but every once in a while you might find an adult with them too! Braces are orthodontic devices that date back to ancient times. Some Egyptian mummies have been discovered with makeshift ones. Modern-day braces work by applying gentle pressure to shift teeth into their desired positions using wires, brackets, and colorful rubber bands. While a journey with braces involves some discomfort and tooth sensitivity, the end result is often a wonderfully aligned set of teeth that can boost both oral health and confidence.

Example Sentences

The most recent work, Berenice Olmedo’s “Amalia,” a motorized sculpture of a leg made from medical prostheses, splints and braces, was created in 2021, a comment on difficulties faced by the disabled.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

A new large-scale analysis has identified knee braces, water therapy, and exercise as the most effective non-drug options for managing knee osteoarthritis.

From Science Daily • Mar. 30, 2026

She also had fixed metal braces to her upper and lower teeth.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

As the global conflict continues and the industry braces itself for even higher fuel prices, United unveiled a new product this week that it hopes will help boost demand.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 28, 2026

“Did you use to have braces on your teeth?”

From "The Haunting of Hill House" by Shirley Jackson