english
1
general::
Phrase(s): pair off [for two people or other creatures] to form a couple or pair. • All of them paired off and worked as teams to solve the puzzle. • Everyone should pair off and discuss the issue for a while.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
1. Put two persons together; also, become one of a couple, as in Jean mentally paired off her guests whenever she planned a party, or All the tennis players had to pair off for a round of doubles matches. [Late 1600s] 2. Also, pair up. Make a pair of, match, as in I always have trouble pairing up their socks. [Early 1900s]
American Heritage Idioms