This week we continue our vocabulary-building series, “The Closing Word.” Each week we provide a new word to help build your vocabulary and show you an example of how to use it.
This week’s closing word:
ply
Pronounced: (PLIE)
Verb:
1. use diligently
2. wield vigorously
3. apply oneself diligently
4. travel a route regularly
5. give what is desired or needed, especially support, food or sustenance
6. join together as by twisting, weaving, or molding
Noun:
1. one of the strands twisted together to make yarn or rope or thread; often used in combination
2. (usually in combinations) one of several layers of cloth or paper or wood as in plywood
From Vocabulary.com: “Ply means to work steadily at something. If you’ve got a lemonade stand and you’re busy perfecting your recipe and seeking out customers, you’re doing a good job of plying your trade. A ship that regularly travels a particular route plies that route. When someone offers you food or drink, often in hopes of getting something in return, they’re plying you: “If I ply you with cake, will you take my dog for a walk?” The noun ply is very different from the verb, referring to layers or strands. Four-ply yarn is made up of four strands. Plywood is made of many layers of wood glued together.”
Example:
“You would be wise to ply the art of introducing people when you think there may be mutual benefit or fondness. An agent who makes connections generates more leads.”
