(1):

(v.) A fold; a plait; a turn or twist, as of a cord.

(2):

(v.) Bent; turn; direction; bias.

(3):

(v. t.) To practice or perform with diligence; to work at.

(4):

(v. i.) To work to windward; to beat.

(5):

(v. i.) To act, go, or work diligently and steadily; especially, to do something by repeated actions; to go back and forth; as, a steamer plies between certain ports.

(6):

(v. i.) To bend; to yield.

(7):

(v. t.) To bend.

(8):

(v. t.) To employ diligently; to use steadily.

(9):

(v. t.) To lay on closely, or in folds; to work upon steadily, or with repeated acts; to press upon; to urge importunately; as, to ply one with questions, with solicitations, or with drink.