How Do You Spell SCISSORHANDS?

Pronunciation: [sˈɪsɔːhˌandz] (IPA)

The word "scissorhands" is spelled with two "s"s, even though the pronunciation sounds like it should be spelled with only one. In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the pronunciation is /ˈsɪzərhændz/. The "s" sounds in the IPA transcription represent the /s/ sound (voiced alveolar fricative) and the /z/ sound (voiced alveolar fricative). This explains why the word is spelled with two "s"s, as both sounds are present in the pronunciation.

SCISSORHANDS Meaning and Definition

  1. "Scissorhands" is a phrase derived from the combination of the words "scissor" and "hands" and is used to refer to an individual who possesses or is associated with unnaturally or disproportionately long, sharp, chisel-like fingertips resembling a pair of scissors. The term gained popularity through the fictional character of Edward Scissorhands, created by Tim Burton in the 1990 eponymous film.

    The phrase "scissorhands" is often metaphorically employed to describe someone who displays remarkable or extraordinary manual dexterity, often in creative or artistic pursuits. It embodies the notion of having the precision and finesse of a pair of scissors or the ability to manipulate objects with great precision. This can encompass a variety of activities such as sculpting, hairstyling, crafting, and other intricate handiworks that require meticulous attention to detail.

    Additionally, the term may be employed more broadly to describe an individual who possesses an unconventional or eccentric nature. This can pertain not only to their manual aptitude but also to their overall demeanor and appearance. It conveys the idea of someone who is unique, unusual, or in some cases, even alienated from conventional society due to their distinctive physical attributes or skills.

    Overall, the term "scissorhands" has evolved into a symbolic representation of exceptional manual or artistic proficiency, as well as an identity associated with unconventionality or nonconformity.

Etymology of SCISSORHANDS

The term "scissorhands" is derived from the combination of two words: "scissors" and "hands".

The word "scissors" comes from the Old English word "sissor", which originates from the Proto-Germanic word "skearziz" meaning "shears" or "clippers". It is related to the Old Norse word "skæri" and Dutch word "schaar", all with similar meanings.

The word "hands" derives from the Old English word "hand", which is linked to the Proto-Germanic word "handuz". This term can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root noun "keh₂n-", denoting "to seize" or "to grasp". It has cognates in several other languages, such as Old Norse "hǫnd", German "Hand", and Sanskrit "hásti", all with similar meanings.