(1):

(n. pl.) A number of rope-yarns wound together, used to secure a cable to the messenger.

(2):

(n. pl.) A device with fingers or jaws for seizing an object and holding or conveying it; as, in a printing press, a clasp for catching a sheet and conveying it to the form.

(3):

(n. pl.) Small pinchers for holding, breaking, or cutting.