English Reference
Noun

screwdriver

n. countable
B1 Intermediate US /ˈskɹuˌdɹaɪvɝ/ UK /skɹˈuːdɹaɪvɐ/ screw·driv·er UK spelling screwdrivers

n.a hand tool with a metal tip that fits into the head of a screw. You use it to turn the screw so you can tighten or loosen it.

n.a manual or power tool designed for turning screws, typically consisting of a handle and a shaft with a shaped tip. Also refers to a cocktail made of orange juice and vodka.


SIMPLE

I need a flat-head screwdriver to fix this loose cabinet door.

CONTEXTUAL

The mechanic reached for a Phillips screwdriver to remove the small panel covering the engine's fuse box.

COMPLEX

While the basic manual screwdriver remains a staple of every household toolkit, many professionals now prefer cordless electric versions for their speed and adjustable torque settings.

Usage

Countable for both the tool and the cocktail.


Compound of screw + driver.

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

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated