English Reference
verb · noun

saw

v. · n.
US /ˈsɔ/ UK /sˈɔː/ saw UK spelling sawed, sawing, saws

infinitive saw past sawed past participle sawn / sawed

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    v.to cut something using a tool with a sharp, toothed blade.

    v.to cut or divide something using a saw; often used with 'off' or 'through'.

    Simple

    He had to saw the thick branch into smaller pieces for the fire.

    In context

    The carpenter carefully began to saw through the oak plank, ensuring the line remained perfectly straight for the cabinet frame.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    n.a tool with a sharp, metal blade that has 'teeth' for cutting wood or metal.

    n.a hand tool or power tool consisting of a tough blade, wire, or chain with a hard toothed edge.

    Simple

    You will need a sharp saw to cut through these wooden boards.

    In context

    The workshop was filled with various types of saws, ranging from delicate coping saws to heavy-duty circular models.

    handsawhacksaw
  3. 03 C2 Proficiency LiteraryArchaic

    n.an old saying or a piece of traditional advice.

    n.a sententious saying or a traditional maxim.

    Simple

    The old man shared an ancient saw about the importance of patience.

    In context

    His speech was peppered with weary old saws that failed to inspire the younger members of the audience.

Usage saw one · saw big · saw something


Etymology 1

From Arabic

Etymology 2

Abbreviation.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Arabic -
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Very common
Updated