Definition

1. Noun (plural):
   • Hand shears for cutting sheet metal: A tool consisting of two pivoted blades, operated by hand, specifically designed for cutting through sheet metal.

Usage

• The term "snips" is used as a plural noun to refer to the tool. It is typically used with plural verbs and pronouns (e.g., "The snips are...", "These snips...").
• It is a common term in metalworking, construction, and DIY contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The mechanic used a pair of tin snips to cut the aluminum panel.
  • These aviation snips are perfect for making precise cuts in the ductwork.
  • Always wear safety gloves when using metal snips.

Advanced Usage

• "A pair of snips": The standard phrasing to indicate one unit of the tool, similar to "a pair of scissors" or "a pair of pliers."
  • You'll need a good pair of snips for this job.

Variants and Related Words

• Tin snips (n): A common type of snips used for cutting thin sheet metal like tin or aluminum.
• Aviation snips (n): A type of compound-action snips designed for cutting curves and intricate shapes in sheet metal.
• Shears (n): A more general term for large scissors or cutting tools, which can include snips.

Synonyms

• Metal shears: Hand tools for cutting metal.
• Tinners' snips: Another term for tin snips.

Notes

• While "snip" can be a verb meaning to cut quickly with scissors, the plural noun "snips" almost exclusively refers to the cutting tool.
• The word is often preceded by a descriptor indicating the type, such as "tin," "aviation," "compound," or "duckbill" snips.

Noun

1. (plural) hand shears for cutting sheet metal