clothespin

American  

[klohz-pin, klohthz-, klohs-] / ˈkloʊzˌpɪn, ˈkloʊðz-, ˈkloʊs- /

noun

1. a device, such as a forked piece of wood or plastic, for fastening articles to a clothesline.

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Etymology

Origin of clothespin

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50; clothes + pin

Example Sentences

The Browns miscalculated, believing that their starving fans would clothespin their noses to escape the stench and instead fantasize about the Super Bowl possibilities with Watson helming the team.

From Washington Post • Jun. 22, 2022

Lloyd began the work after the death of her mother, whose own childhood Raggedy Ann and clothespin dolls she came across when organizing her effects.

From New York Times • Nov. 10, 2021

To use a pulse oximeter, press the device open as you would press a clip or clothespin, and place your finger snugly inside.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 11, 2021

Whatever you think of the Shaker commitment to celibacy, it may have contributed to their remarkable productiveness; they were responsible for many cherished modern inventions — among them clothespin and the circular saw.

From Salon • Nov. 21, 2018

Without another word, my aunt whisked her entire clothespin population back into the box and went into the house.

From "The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs" by Betty G. Birney