(~s, ~ing, ~ed)
1.
A ~ is a device that holds two things firmly together.
N-COUNT
2.
When you ~ one thing to another, you fasten the two things together with a ~.
Somebody forgot to bring along the U-bolts to ~ the microphones to the pole.
VERB: V n to n
3.
To ~ something in a particular place means to put it or hold it there firmly and tightly.
Simon finished dialing and ~ed the phone to his ear...
He ~ed his lips together...
You beg him to try just one spoonful, and he ~s his mouth shut...
Peter jumped to his feet with his hand ~ed to his neck.
VERB: V n prep, V n together , V n adj, V-ed
4.
A ~ is a large metal device which is fitted to the wheel of an illegally parked car or other vehicle in order to prevent it from being driven away. The driver has to pay to have the ~ removed. (BRIT; in AM, use Denver boot )
N-COUNT
5.
To ~ a car means to fit a ~ to one of its wheels so that it cannot be driven away. (BRIT; in AM, use boot )
Courts in Scotland have ruled it illegal to ~ a car parked on private ground and then to demand a fine.
VERB: V n
~ing
The AA called for laws to regulate ~ing firms.
N-UNCOUNT