Defn: One that taps, or cuts in on, telegraph wires and intercepts messages; hence (Slang),
Defn: a swindler who pretends to tap wires or otherwise intercept advance telegraphic news for betting. — Wire tapping.
WIREWORK
Wire"work`, n.
Defn: Work, especially openwork, formed of wires.
WIRE-WORKER
Wire"-work`er, n.
Defn: One who manufactures articles from wire.
WIREWORM Wire"worm`, n. (Zoöl.) (a) One of the larvæ of various species of snapping beetles, or elaters; — so called from their slenderness and the uncommon hardness of the integument. Wireworms are sometimes very destructive to the roots of plants. Called also wire grub. (b) A galleyworm.
WIRE-WOUND GUN
Wire"-wound` gun. (Ordnance)
Defn: A gun in the construction of which an inner tube (either entire or in segments) is wound with wire under tension to insure greater soundness and uniformity of resistance. In modern construction hoops and jackets are shrunk on over the wire.
WIRINESS
Wir"i*ness, n.