Scissors Definition Scissors Definition 1

Scissors (noun) — a tool with two sharp blades joined in the middle, used for cutting paper, fabric, hair, and other materials.

Part of speech:
Noun (uncountable)
Phonetic transcription (IPA):
/ˈsɪz.ɚz/
CEFR level:
A1
Word frequency:

How to Pronounce “Scissors”

flag uk Audio (UK):
Play
00:00 / 00:00
flag us Audio (US):
Play
00:00 / 00:00
Tips for “scissors” pronunciation: 

The term commences with a subtle s pronunciation. The ci is pronounced as a z, hence the initial section is /sɪz/. The suffix -ɚz employs the American English light r sound for its typical pronunciation.

Level up your English with Koto!

Examples: How to Use “Scissors” in a Sentence

Such instances elucidate the everyday communication use of “scissors.”

She used scissors to cut the paper into small pieces.
The hairdresser picked up her scissors and started trimming his hair.
Keep the scissors in the drawer after using them.
The child asked for safety scissors for the project.
This pair of scissors is not sharp enough.

What Are Synonyms for the Word “Scissors”?

While there are no direct synonyms for the “scissors,” several related terms can be employed, depending on context.

Related nouns: shears clippers cutters

Synonyms (contextual): cutting tool cutting instrument

Common collocations: safety scissors hair scissors kitchen scissors sharp scissors

“Scissors” Word Formation and Usage in Context

Understanding combinations of the term “scissors” with other words will define the purpose, quality, and situation.

With adjectives: dull scissors safety scissors professional scissors

With verbs: use scissors hold scissors sharpen scissors drop scissors

With nouns (noun + noun): scissors handle scissors blade scissors case scissors set

Idioms and Phrases with “Scissors”

Although the term “scissors” is rarely found in many fixed idioms, it is still predominantly used in both practical and figurative expressions. The following are the usual examples:

  • Safety scissors/Hair scissors/Kitchen scissors — scissors by the nature of their purpose.

    Helen bought safety scissors for her child.
  • A pair of scissors — the standard way to refer to the tool.

    I need a pair of scissors to open this package.
  • Scissors cut paper — expression from the game rock, paper, scissors.

    Scissors cut paper, so I won the round.
Scissors Idioma Scissors Idioma 1
  • Take scissors to something — to cut or redesign an item.

    She took scissors to the old jeans and made shorts.

“Scissors” Meaning Test: Check Your Knowledge

These are exercises that are for your practice of the words that are directly adapted or related to the “scissors.”

Type 1: True/false statements:
Choose the correct answer:
1
Scissors are used to cut paper, fabric, or other materials.
2
Scissors can be safely used by very young children without supervision.
3
A pair of scissors always has two blades.
Type 2: Right word order:
Put these words in the correct order:
1
used
She
scissors
to
cut
the
paper
2
dropped
He
the
scissors
on
the
floor
3
were
kept
in
The
drawer
scissors
the
hair
Type 3: Choose the correct option
Select the answer closest in meaning:
1
She sharpened her scissors. What does it mean?
2
The child has safety scissors for school. What is the purpose?
3
The scissors have a plastic handle. What is the handle for?

Enjoy personalized learning!

“Scissors” Word in Other Languages

The “scissors” originates from the Latin cisoria, meaning a cutting tool, whereas some variation does exist with local languages. See how to say “scissors” in some languages:

Language Word for “Scissors”
Flag Spanish Spanish   Tijeras
Flag French French   Ciseaux
Flag German German   Schere

Interesting Facts About “Scissors”

Scissors have a long and varied history, and the possibilities they offer for uses, being so seemingly simple, cause happiness on an extraordinary note.

  • Scissors have ancient origins.

    Scissors-like tools are known to have existed for more than 3,000 years. The first cutting tools with a pivot were found in Ancient Egypt.
  • It is a plural-only word.

    “Scissors” is a plural noun in English, always. People use the expression a pair of scissors instead of a scissor.
  • There are a lot of specialized types of the tool.

    There are different types of scissors for hair, fabric, kitchen, and safety use. The blades of each type of cutter are specifically made according to their job.
  • The world’s largest scissors are from Arizona.

    The scissors with the largest size have a length of more than 10 feet. An exhibition in Italy was the place where the scissors were made as a novelty item.
  • The tool has a timeless design.

    The fundamental two-blade with a pivot design has not really changed much over the years. Its simplicity is very efficient for cutting.