safety-pin
Definition
- Noun:
- A type of fastener: A "safety-pin" is a pin designed with a pointed end that is bent back and secured by a clasp or guard, typically used to fasten cloth or fabric. It is distinguished by its spring mechanism and protective covering, which prevents the point from causing injury.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- She used a safety-pin to fix the torn hem on her dress. (A pin with a guard to fasten fabric safely.)
- The baby's diaper was secured with a large safety-pin. (A fastener used for cloth diapers to avoid pricking the skin.)
Advanced Usage
"to pin something with a safety-pin": to attach or secure an item using a safety-pin.
- He pinned the badge to his lapel with a safety-pin. (He fastened the badge using a safety-pin.)
"as a safety-pin": used metaphorically to describe something that holds things together temporarily.
- The agreement acted as a safety-pin for the fragile peace. (The agreement temporarily secured the peace.)
Variants and Related Words
Safety-pin (verb): to fasten or secure with a safety-pin.
- She safety-pinned the torn pocket shut. (She used a safety-pin to close the pocket.)
Safety-pin-like (adj): resembling a safety-pin in shape or function.
- The clasp had a safety-pin-like mechanism. (The clasp worked similarly to a safety-pin.)
Synonyms
- Fastener: a device that closes or secures something.
- Clasp: a device that holds things together, often with a catch.
- Pin: a thin piece of metal used for fastening, though without the guard of a safety-pin.
Related Idioms
"a safety-pin solution": a temporary or improvised fix.
- Using tape was just a safety-pin solution for the broken pipe. (A quick, temporary repair.)
"to be held together by safety-pins": to be in a state of disrepair or makeshift arrangement.
- The old car was held together by safety-pins and hope. (The car was barely functional with patched-up repairs.)