Meaning of the word staple in English

What does staple mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

staple

US /ˈsteɪ.pəl/
UK /ˈsteɪ.pəl/
"staple" picture

Noun

1.

a main or important element of something, especially of a diet or economy

Example:
Rice is a staple food in many Asian countries.
Oil exports are the staple of their economy.
2.

a piece of metal shaped like a U with pointed ends, used for fastening things

Example:
He used a staple gun to attach the fabric to the wood.
The documents were held together by a single metal staple.

Verb

fasten or secure with a staple or staples

Example:
Please staple the report pages together before submitting.
The poster was stapled to the bulletin board.

Adjective

forming a necessary or important part of something

Example:
Coffee is a staple beverage in many cultures.
Jeans are a staple item in most wardrobes.
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