English Reference

Word

toolbox

Phoneticstool·box, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈtuɫˌbɔks/

UK/tˈuːlbɒks/

Definitions

01physical container

A2 · Elementary Countable noun

n. a box or case where you keep tools like hammers and screwdrivers.

n. a physical container designed for the organized storage and transport of manual tools.

“He grabbed his toolbox from the garage to fix the broken shelf.”

“The plumber arrived with a heavy metal toolbox, neatly organized with various wrenches and replacement valves for the repair.”

Synonyms

02set of skills

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a set of skills or methods you use to do a job or solve a problem.

n. a metaphorical set of competencies, strategies, or resources available to a professional.

“Learning a second language is a great addition to your professional toolbox.”

“The workshop aims to provide managers with a practical toolbox of conflict resolution strategies for the modern workplace.”

Synonyms

skill setrepertoire

03software library

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Computing Technical

n. a collection of ready-to-use computer code that helps programmers build new software.

n. a set of pre-existing routines, functions, or software components used to facilitate the development of new applications.

“The developer used a graphics toolbox to create the game's visual effects.”

“By utilizing the standard mathematical toolbox, the research team significantly reduced the time required to implement the data analysis algorithm.”

Synonyms

04foolish person

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Slang · Informal

n. a rude word for someone you think is stupid or annoying.

n. a derogatory term for an individual perceived as foolish, incompetent, or socially inept.

“Don't listen to him; he's just a total toolbox.”

“The internet comments were filled with people calling the politician a toolbox after his latest public blunder.”

Synonyms

Real-World Examples

“So, when they do become adults, they have those tools in their toolbox," Arastoopour Irgens explained.”
Phys.org 17 Sept 2026

Etymology

From tool + box.

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

Domain

Computing

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/toolbox

English Reference