n. & v.
--n.
1. a set of two persons or things used together or regarded as a unit (a pair of gloves; a pair of eyes).
2 an article (e.g. scissors, trousers, or pyjamas) consisting of two joined or corresponding parts not used separately.
3 a an engaged or married couple. b a mated couple of animals.
4 two horses harnessed side by side (a coach and pair).
5 the second member of a pair in relation to the first (cannot find its pair).
6 two playing cards of the same denomination.
7 Parl. either or both of two MPs etc. on opposite sides absenting themselves from voting by mutual arrangement.
--v.tr. & intr.
1. (often foll. by off) arrange or be arranged in couples.
2 a join or be joined in marriage. b (of animals) mate.
3 Parl. form a pair.
Phrases and idioms:
in pairs in twos. pair production Physics the conversion of a radiation quantum into an electron and a positron. pair royal a set of three cards of the same denomination.
Etymology: ME f. OF paire f. L paria neut. pl. of par equal