plies Definition

plies ply¹ply²

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ply¹
noun plies

1a. Thickness of yarn, rope or wood, measured by the number of strands or layers that compose it;
1b. Specifying the number of strands or layers involved.

Example: four-ply wool
2. A strand or layer.

Etymology: 16c: from French pli fold, from plier to fold.

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ply²
verb plies, plied, plying

1. To keep supplying them with something or making a repeated, often annoying, onslaught on them.

Example: plied them with drinks
Example: plying me with questions
Thesaurus: provide, supply, replenish, equip, furbish.
Form: ply someone with something (usually)
tr & intr
2. To travel a route regularly; to go regularly to and fro between destinations.

Form: ply between one place and another (often)
3. dated or literary
To work at (a trade).
Thesaurus: practise, pursue, follow, exercise, work at.
4. dated or literary
To use (a tool, etc).
Example: ply one's needle

Derivative: plier
noun

Etymology: 14c: from apply.