'pincer' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'pincer', where the root meant 'to pinch' or 'to seize'.

'pincer' entered Middle English from Old French 'pincer' (verb 'to pinch'); the form and use referring to the tool and the action developed in Middle English and became the modern English word 'pincer'.

Initially, it meant 'to pinch' or referred to a tool for pinching; over time it broadened to include an animal's claw and figuratively a two-sided attack or trap.