| 释义 |
ˈlazy-tongs
A system of several pairs of levers crossing and pivoted at their centres in the manner of scissors, so connected that the movement of the first pair is communicated to the last, which is fitted with ends resembling those of a pair of tongs, for picking up objects at a distance. The name is applied also to a similar combination of levers used in machinery. Also attrib.
1836Encycl. Brit. (ed. 7) XIV. 450/2 A combination of levers called zig-zag, or lazy tongs, or scissors. Ibid., These lazy tongs are ingeniously applied by Mr. Aldous of Clapton, for conveying the motion of the beam of his steam engine to the crank which gives the circular motion. 1847Ld. Lindsay Hist. Chr. Art I. 109 The other presents him [the Saviour] the sponge of vinegar, (on the instrument commonly called a lazy-tongs). 1862H. Marryat Year in Sweden I. 118 Our course ran zigzag, like a pair of lazy-tongs. a1864Gesner Coal, Petrol., etc. (1865) 31 The Lazy Tongs..is attached by a screw-joint to the sinker bar or other suitable rod of iron, and lowered so as to catch the end of the missing tool in its jaws. 1881G. M. Hopkins Let. 14 May (1938) 100 My only resource is to ask you if you..can suggest some fetch, some boomerang or lazytongs or round-the-corner means of having at him. 1912Proc. Amer. Philos. Soc. LI. 558 A series of links of the ‘lazy-tongs’ pattern. 1942‘M. Innes’ Daffodil Affair ii. 70 A lazy-tongs... It used to be quite a popular toy..something rather like a pair of scissors with a piece of lattice-work pivoted to the blades. 1955Archit. Rev. CXVII. 356/3 The ‘lazy-tongs’ effect of every door being forced to open simultaneously. |