Sledgehammer - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A sledgehammer is a large, heavy hammer with a long handle, used for breaking rocks or driving stakes. It symbolizes great force or power in both literal and figurative contexts.
Definition:
A large, heavy hammer used for breaking rocks or driving stakes.
Synonyms:
mallet, maul, beetle
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
featherweight tool, small hammer
Common Collocations:
swing a sledgehammer, heavy sledgehammer, sledgehammer blow
Derivatives:
sledgehammered, sledgehammering
Usage Tips:
Use "sledgehammer" as a noun for the tool or a verb meaning to strike forcefully or overdo something.
Common Phrases:
"sledgehammer approach, " "hit with a sledgehammer, " "like a sledgehammer to crack a nut"
Etymology:
From Old English "slege" (a heavy blow) + "hammer," dating back to the 15th century.
Examples:
- 1. He swung the sledgehammer to break the concrete slab.
- 2. The workers used a sledgehammer to drive the posts into the ground.
- 3. She felt like life had hit her with a sledgehammer.
- 4. Don’t use a sledgehammer to crack a nut—try a gentler approach.