Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Attachable by a clip: Describes an object designed to be fastened or attached using a clip mechanism, rather than by other means like tying, screwing, or gluing.

2. Noun:

   • A device attached by clips: An accessory or object (such as an earring, tie, or microphone) that is secured in place using one or more clips.

Usage and Examples

• Adjective:

  • She bought a clip-on lamp for her desk. (The lamp is designed to be attached to the edge of the desk with a clip.)
  • He prefers clip-on ties because they are easier to put on. (The tie is fastened with a clip instead of being tied.)

• Noun:

  • The reporter used a clip-on for the interview. (The reporter used a small microphone that clips onto clothing.)
  • Her sunglasses were clip-ons that fit over her regular glasses. (The sunglasses are a separate accessory that clips onto her prescription glasses.)

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier in compound nouns: The term "clip-on" is frequently used as a modifier before another noun to specify its attachment method.
  • clip-on fan, clip-on light, clip-on camera

Variants and Related Words

• Clip (verb/noun): The fastening device or the action of fastening.
  • Please clip the papers together. (Fasten the papers.)
• Clip-on (hyphenated): The standard spelling for both the adjective and noun forms, emphasizing it is a single concept.

Synonyms

• Attachable
• Snap-on (specifically for items that snap into place, which may be similar)

Antonyms

• Permanent
• Fixed
• Tie-on (e.g., a tie that must be tied)

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Clip-on earrings: Earrings that attach to the earlobe with a clip, for those without pierced ears.
• Clip-on bow tie: A pre-tied bow tie that fastens with a clip behind the shirt collar.

Adjective

1. attachable by a clip
   • clip-on earrings
   • a clip-on bow tie

Noun

1. a device (as an earring, sunglasses, microphone etc.) that is attached by clips