ENGLISH
REFERENCE

screwdriver

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

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.

Origin

Compound of screw + driver.

Usage

Countable for both the tool and the cocktail.

Idioms1 entry

© 2026 English Reference