ply

ply

ply¹ [plī]

vt.

plied, plying [ME plien < OFr plier < L plicare, to fold < IE base * plek-, to entwine > FLAX]

Now Rare to bend, twist, fold, or mold

vi.

Obs. to bend or submit

n.

pl. plies [MFr pli < the v.]

1. a single thickness, fold, or layer, as of doubled cloth, plywood, etc.

2. one of the twisted strands in rope, yarn, etc.

3.

a) the state of being bent or twisted

b) bias or inclination

adj.

having (a specified number of) layers, thicknesses, or strands: usually in hyphenated compounds [three-ply]

ply² [plī]

vt.

plied, plying [ME plien, aphetic for applien, APPLY]

1. to do work with; wield or use (a tool, faculty, etc.), esp. with energy

2. to work at (a trade)

3. to address (someone) urgently and constantly (with questions, etc.)

4. to keep supplying (with gifts, food, drink, etc.)

5. to sail regularly back and forth across [boats ply the channel]

vi.

1. to keep busy or work (at something or with a tool, etc.)

2. to travel regularly (between places): said of ships, buses, etc.

3. Old Poet. to steer a course

SYN.- HANDLE