Spanner - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A spanner is a hand tool used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts. It typically has a fixed or adjustable jaw to grip fasteners securely. Also known as a wrench in some regions.
Definition:
A tool used for turning nuts or bolts, typically with adjustable jaws.
Synonyms:
wrench, monkey wrench, adjustable wrench
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
nut, bolt (as opposites in function)
Common Collocations:
adjustable spanner, open-ended spanner, ring spanner, spanner set
Derivatives:
spanners, spannering
Usage Tips:
Use "spanner" for British English; Americans prefer "wrench." Ensure the jaws fit the nut snugly to avoid slipping.
Common Phrases:
throw a spanner in the works, spanner in the works
Etymology:
From German "spannen" (to stretch or tighten), referring to the tool's function of gripping and turning fasteners.
Examples:
- 1. He tightened the bolt with a spanner.
- 2. The mechanic reached for his spanner to fix the engine.
- 3. She bought a new set of spanners for her workshop.
- 4. A loose nut requires a properly sized spanner to tighten it.