pair

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   Two things that match and are used together.

   I bought a new pair of shoes yesterday.

2. 2
   noun

   A single object made of two joined parts, like scissors or trousers.

   I need a sharp pair of scissors to cut this paper.

3. 3
   noun

   Two people who are together as partners or friends.

   The two dancers made a wonderful pair.

4. 4
   verb

   To put two things or people together as a set.

   The teacher paired each student with a partner for the project.

From Middle English paire, from Old French paire, from Latin paria (“equals”), neuter plural of par (“pair”). Related to pār (“equal”, adjective). Compare Saterland Frisian Poor (“pair”), West Frisian pear (“pair”), Dutch paar (“pair”), German Paar (“pair”), Italian paio (“pair”)

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