braces
Translation
braces, suspenders, curly brackets
Examples
She got her braces off last week.
She got her braces off last week.
He wore red braces with his suit.
He wore red braces with his suit.
Use braces to group statements in code.
Use curly brackets to group statements in code.
Grammar Patterns
((a pair of)) braces an orthodontic appliance or straps to hold up trousers She has to wear braces for two years.
Similar Words
Synonyms (dental): orthodontic appliance; Synonyms (trousers): suspenders
Etymology
From Old French 'brace' (two arms), from Latin 'bracchia' (arms). The idea is of holding things together.
Memory Tips
Picture someone with dental braces 'embracing' their new smile. Or, imagine trouser braces as two 'arms' holding up trousers.