wire

¹wire

noun, often attributive \ˈwī(-ə)r\

Definition of WIRE

1

a : metal in the form of a usually very flexible thread or slender rod b : a thread or rod of such material

2

a : wirework b : the meshwork of parallel or woven wire on which the wet web of paper forms

3

: something (as a thin plant stem) that is wirelike

4

plural a : a system of wires used to operate the puppets in a puppet show b : hidden influences controlling the action of a person or organization

5

a : a line of wire for conducting electric current — compare cord 3b b : a telephone or telegraph wire or system; especially : wire service c : telegram, cablegram

6

: fencing or a fence of usually barbed wire

7

a : the finish line of a race b : the final decisive moment (as of a contest) <the negotiations came down to the wire>

8

: wirehair

— wire·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective

— under the wire

1

: at the finish line

2

: at the last moment

— wire to wire or from wire to wire

: from start to finish <led the race wire to wire>

Examples of WIRE

1. The flowers were bound together with thin wire.
2. There was a wire sticking out of the chair.
3. A telephone wire had fallen on the road during the storm.
4. A short black wire connects the computer's monitor to its keyboard.
5. The undercover officer wore a wire to her meeting with the drug dealer.

Origin of WIRE

Middle English, from Old English wīr; akin to Old High German wiara fine gold work, Latin viēre to plait, and probably to Greek iris rainbow

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to WIRE

Synonyms: cable, lace, lacing, line, rope, string, cord

Related Words: guy, halyard, lanyard, stay; bungee cord, whipcord

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