pince-monseigneur
common noun
Syllable Decomposition
pince-monseigneurThe word comes from 'pince' (pliers) and 'monseigneur' (a title of respect). The French Academy explains the term as follows: 'Monseigneur' was used to refer to a person of high dignity. And as nothing could be refused to these eminent persons, all doors would open before 'monseigneur' (Larousse 1880). In other words, access could not be denied to a 'monseigneur'. The 'pince-monseigneur', which allows opening any lock or chain, takes its name from the fact that no door can resist it.
Definitions
Plural
pinces-monseigneur