alligator clip

noun

: a spring-loaded clip that has jaws resembling an alligator's and is used for making temporary electrical connections

Illustration of alligator clip

Illustration of alligator clip

Examples of alligator clip in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Alongside the wig came alligator clips, a rat-tail comb, an edge brush, scissors, and a hanging wig storage bag. — Alexis Jackson, refinery29.com, 24 Aug. 2023 The modular design is incredibly easy to fit together as the pieces connect with snap-in alligator clips. — Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 16 Jan. 2026 The kit comes with one solar panel, a charger controller, mounting bracket, alligator clips, O-rings, and a set of mounting pieces. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Apr. 2026 Each is 11 inches wide for a big visual impact, with white velvet leaves, shimmery buds at the center, and an alligator clip for easy attachment. — Miles Walls, People.com, 4 Dec. 2024 She was pulled away by Secret Service and went to a Zayre discount store for a phone, unscrewed the speaker cup off the receiver and attached alligator clips to reach her radio station, The Sun reported. — Jacques Kelly, Baltimore Sun, 23 July 2024 Animal clips Eagle-eyed fans at this year’s Met Gala will have spotted a cute alligator clip hidden in Lana Del Rey’s curls courtesy of New Orleans hair accessory brand Relic Room. — Dominic Cadogan, Glamour, 16 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1935, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alligator clip was in 1935

Rhymes for alligator clip

See All Rhymes for alligator clip

Browse Nearby Words

alligator cacao
alligator clip
alligator fish
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Alligator clip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alligator%20clip. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

alligator clip

noun
: a clip that has jaws resembling an alligator's and is used to make temporary electrical connections
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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