/plaɪ/ or /plaɪ/ or /plaɪ/ (UK), /plaɪ/ (US)

Definitions

1. noun

a single course or layer of material, especially in a laminated structure, or a layer of wood, etc., in a piece of furniture

“The table’s surface was made of many layers of wood, each one a different ply.”

2. noun

a course or layer of material used in a process or operation, such as a ply of adhesive in a construction process

“The workers applied multiple plies of sealant to the roof.”

3. verb

to apply multiple layers or coats of something, such as paint or adhesive, in a process

“The workers plied the surface with multiple layers of insulation.”

4. verb

to move or cause to move in a twisting or turning motion, especially of a rope or thread

“She plied the rope around the post to secure it.”

5. verb

to question or ask someone questions, especially in order to find out information or to persuade them

“She plied him with questions about his work.”

6. verb

to provide or supply something, especially food and drink, especially to someone, especially in a hospitable or friendly way

“The host plied his guests with drinks and snacks.”

7. verb

to work or act in a particular way or to a particular effect, especially in order to achieve a particular goal or result

“The team plied their skills to win the championship.”

8. verb

to cause or make something to happen, especially by using one’s skills or abilities

“The magician plied his tricks to amaze the audience.”