# Allen

/ˈæɫən/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/allen
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. a tool

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

a short name for an Allen wrench or Allen key, which is an L-shaped tool used to turn screws with a six-sided hole.

For teachers: a colloquial ellipsis for an Allen wrench or Allen key, referring to a hexagonal-sectioned L-shaped tool used for driving bolts and screws with a hexagonal socket.

- I need an Allen to tighten the screws on this new bookshelf.
- The flat-pack furniture kit arrived with a small disposable Allen, though using a professional-grade hex key set would have been significantly more efficient.

Usage: Often used as an attributive noun in 'Allen key' or 'Allen wrench', but frequently shortened to just 'Allen' in casual workshop contexts.

### 2. a name

noun · CEFR A1

a common English and Scottish family name or a man's first name.

For teachers: a common surname of English and Scottish origin, or a masculine given name derived from Celtic roots.

- Mr. Allen is the new science teacher at our local high school.
- The historical documents were signed by a man named Allen, though the spelling of the surname varied across different parish records from that era.

## Examples

- I need an Allen key to tighten the chair legs.
- Most flat-pack furniture kits include a small Allen wrench so you can assemble the pieces at home.
- The technician used a set of Allen bolts to secure the internal components, ensuring that the casing remained flush and free of protruding screw heads.

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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.