Meanings
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1
verb
to keep supplying someone with something, especially food, drink, or questions
The hosts plied their guests with food and wine throughout the evening.
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2
verb
to work steadily at a trade, task, or tool
For forty years she plied her trade as a tailor in the same neighborhood.
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3
verb
to travel or operate regularly along a particular route
Small ferries ply the channel between the island and the mainland.
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4
noun
one of the layers or strands from which a material, yarn, or rope is made
The jacket uses a three-ply fabric for extra warmth.
Thesaurus
Etymology
From Middle English plien, through Anglo-Norman and Old French plier, 'to bend or fold,' from Latin plicare, 'to fold.' The noun senses preserve the idea of folded layers or twisted strands; the verb later developed senses of applying effort, repeatedly supplying something, and following a regular course.