~ 1
■ noun ( plural plies )
1》 a thickness or layer of a folded or laminated material.
2》 each of a number of multiple layers or strands of which something is made: [in combination ] four-~.
Origin
ME (in the sense 'fold'): from Fr. pli , plier 'to fold', from L. plicare 'to fold'.
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~ 2
■ verb ( plies , ~ing , plied )
1》 work steadily with (a tool).
↘work steadily at (one's business or trade).
2》 (of a vessel or vehicle) travel regularly over a route, typically for commercial purposes.
3》 ( ~ someone with ) provide someone with (food or drink) in a continuous or insistent way.
↘direct (numerous questions) at someone.
Origin
ME: shortening of ap~ .