Ply v. t. [imp. & p. p. Plied p. pr. & vb. n. Plying ]
 1. To bend. [Obs.]
    As men may warm wax with handes plie.   --Chaucer.
 2. To lay on closely, or in folds; to work upon steadily, or with repeated acts; to press upon; to urge importunately; as, to ply one with questions, with solicitations, or with drink.
    And plies him with redoubled strokes   --Dryden.
    He plies the duke at morning and at night.   --Shak.
 3. To employ diligently; to use steadily.
    Go ply thy needle; meddle not.   --Shak.
 4. To practice or perform with diligence; to work at.
    Their bloody task, unwearied, still they ply.   --Waller.
 Plied imp. & p. p. of Ply.
 ◄ ►
 ply
      n 1: one of the strands twisted together to make yarn or rope or
           thread; often used in combination; "three-ply cord";
           "four-ply yarn"
      2: (usually in combinations) one of several layers of cloth or
         paper or wood as in plywood
      v 1: provide what is desired or needed, especially support, food
           or sustenance; "The hostess provided lunch for all the
           guests" [syn: provide, supply, cater]
      2: apply oneself diligently; "Ply one's trade"
      3: travel a route regularly; "Ships ply the waters near the
         coast" [syn: run]
      4: wield vigorously; "ply an axe"
      5: use diligently; "ply your wits!"
      [also: plied]
 plied
      See ply