# crescent spanner

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/crescent-spanner
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

An open-end adjustable spanner with a worm-drive thumbwheel. When the term adjustable spanner or adjustable wrench is used, this type (branded with any of many brands) is usually the type meant.

## Examples

- Use a crescent spanner to tighten that loose bolt.
- He keeps a crescent spanner in his kitchen drawer for quick home repairs.
- I could not find the right size wrench, so I used a crescent spanner to finish the repair.
- If you are not sure which tool to bring, a crescent spanner is helpful because it fits many different sizes of nuts and bolts.
- The plumber adjusted his crescent spanner to grip the old pipe tightly before he tried to turn it.
- The mechanic reached for his crescent spanner, carefully adjusting the thumbwheel to fit the unusual nut size before applying steady pressure.

## Origin

A genericization of the trade name of a company famous for making them (although it did not invent them); details are at Wikipedia. The trademark is still protected, and this genericized term is only informal and loose. Compare kleenex and coke.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.