Paires

Part of speech: noun, verb

Definitions

1. Two items that are matched or linked together; a couple or set composed of two similar or complementary parts; a pair considered as a unit forming a duo
2. A group of two corresponding or associated things; two connected elements that function or exist jointly; double units regarded as a single entity
3. A combination of two related objects or individuals; a twin set designed to be used together; a coupling of two comparable components perceived as one

Etymology: "Paires" is the plural of "paire", the Middle English and Old French ancestor of modern "pair". The singular came into English from Old French "paire", which in turn descends from Latin "paria", the neuter plural of "par", meaning "equal" or "like". The sense of two matched things grew naturally from that idea of equality: a pair is two items considered as equal partners or a matched set. Because "paires" is a plural, it carries the meaning of several pairs, or of a series of matched couples, rather than a single duo. The plural form simply follows the regular English pattern of adding "-s" to a noun ending in a consonant sound.