vise

Definition

An instrument consisting of two jaws, closing by a screw, lever, cam, or the like, for holding work, as in filing.

Etymology

From Middle English vis, vys, vice (“screw”), from Anglo-Norman vyz, vice, from Old French vis (“screw”), from Latin vītis f (“vine”). Probably akin to English withe.

Example Sentences

• "Clamp this loop in a strong vise and twist the two ends evenly into one piece. As the twisting progresses, move the wire along so as to keep the grip of the vise close to the hands."
• "I'd like to know what would become of us in the next ten minutes. They've got us in a vise. We're done for, Gall."