ply
1 (plī)
[Middle English plien, from Old French plier, alteration of pleier, from Latin plicāre, to fold.]
transitive verb: plied (plīd), ply·ing, plies (plīz)
- To join together, as by molding or twisting.
- To double over (cloth, for example).
noun: pl., plies (plīz)
- A layer, as of doubled-over cloth or of paperboard.
- One of the sheets of wood glued together to form plywood.
- A layer of rubber-coated fabric, often of nylon or polyester cords, forming the body of an automobile tire.
- One of the strands twisted together to make yarn, rope, or thread. Often used in combination: three-ply cord.
- A bias; an inclination.
ply
2 (plī)
[Middle English plien, from applien, to apply; see apply.]
verb: plied (plīd), ply·ing, plies (plīz)
transitive verb
- To use diligently; wield: ply a knitting needle.
- To engage in diligently; practice: plied the carpenter's trade. See synonyms at handle
- To traverse or sail over regularly: Trading ships plied the routes between coastal ports.
- To continue offering something to; ensure that (another) is abundantly served: plied their guests with excellent food.
- To assail vigorously.
intransitive verb
- To traverse a route or course regularly: The boat plies between the islands on a weekly schedule.
- To perform or work diligently or regularly: plied at the weaver's trade for 20 years.
- Nautical To work against the wind by a zigzag course; tack.
