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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.

sledgehammer

/ˈslɛdʒˌhæmər/ /ˈslɛdʒˌhæmə/

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.

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