tenaculum

/tɛnˈækjʊləm/

Definitions

1. noun

a small pair of pointed forceps used for holding or manipulating small objects, especially in dental or surgical procedures

“The dentist used a tenaculum to grip the tooth before extracting it.”

2. noun

a hook or claw-like device used in entomology to grasp and hold insects

“The entomologist used a tenaculum to capture the rare species of beetle.”

Synonyms

  • forceps
  • pincers
  • tweezers

Antonyms

  • disengager
  • releaser