tr.v. plied (plīd), ply·ing, plies (plīz) 1. To join together, as by molding or twisting. 2. To double over (cloth, for example). n. pl. plies (plīz) 1. A layer, as of doubled-over cloth or of paperboard. 2. One of the sheets of wood glued together to form plywood. 3. A layer of rubber-coated fabric, often of nylon or polyester cords, forming the body of an automobile tire. 4. One of the strands twisted together to make yarn, rope, or thread. Often used in combination: three-ply cord. 5. A bias; an inclination. [Middle English plien, from Old French plier, alteration of pleier, from Latin plicāre, to fold; see plek- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition copyright ©2022 by HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition copyright ©2022 by HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved.