# Phillips

/ˈfɪɫɪps/ (US)

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

## Senses

### 1. cross-shaped screw type

adjective · CEFR B2

describes a screw with a cross-shaped hole in the top, or a tool made to fit it.

For teachers: denoting a screw with a cross-shaped recess or a screwdriver designed to fit such a head.

- You will need a Phillips screwdriver to open the back of the computer.
- The assembly instructions specify that Phillips screws should be used for the internal brackets to prevent the driver from slipping during high-torque application.

Usage: Usually capitalized in technical contexts, though often lowercase in casual use.

### 2. a cross-head screwdriver

noun · CEFR B2

a screwdriver with a cross-shaped tip.

For teachers: a screwdriver having a cross-shaped tip that fits into the head of a Phillips screw.

- Hand me the Phillips so I can tighten these loose screws on the door.
- The technician reached for a Phillips to remove the casing, noting that the previous repair had stripped several of the heads.

### 3. a surname

noun · CEFR A2

a common English family name.

For teachers: a common surname of English and Welsh origin, derived from the given name Philip.

- Mr. Phillips is the new science teacher at the local high school.
- The firm was founded by the Phillips brothers in the late nineteenth century and remains a family-owned enterprise to this day.

## Examples

- You need a Phillips screwdriver to open the battery cover.
- The furniture kit includes several Phillips screws that require a specific cross-head tool for assembly.
- While flat-head screws were once the industry standard, the Phillips design became dominant in automotive manufacturing because it allows for higher torque without the tool slipping out.

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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.