Hammer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hammer
[ˈhæmər ]
Definitions
construction tool
A hammer is a tool consisting of a heavy metal head fixed to a handle, used for driving nails, breaking up objects, or for shaping metal.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hammer |
Repeated, heavy impacts, metaphorically used in both physical actions and abstract concepts.
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| mallet |
A tool with a large, typically wooden or rubber head, used for gentle taps in woodworking or striking chisels. It's also used in sports like croquet.
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| sledgehammer |
A large, heavy hammer used for demolition or heavy-duty tasks requiring significant force. It can also be used metaphorically to describe an over-the-top approach.
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| maul |
A heavy hammer or mallet used for more forceful impacts, like splitting logs. It can also imply a rough, violent handling, usually in a negative sense.
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Examples of usage
- The carpenter used a hammer to drive the nails into the wood.
- She used the hammer to break up the concrete slab.
- He used the hammer to shape the piece of metal.
judicial symbol
In legal contexts, a hammer symbolizes the authority or power of a judge or an official presiding over a meeting or an auction.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hammer |
A tool commonly used for driving nails into wood or other materials, often in construction or carpentry.
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| gavel |
A small ceremonial mallet used by judges or officials to bring a meeting to order. Often found in legal contexts or formal meetings.
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Examples of usage
- The judge banged the hammer to announce the end of the court session.
- The auctioneer raised the hammer to signal the closing of the bidding.
strike forcefully
To hammer means to strike something forcefully and repeatedly, typically with a hammer or a similar object.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hammer |
In addition to hitting with a tool, can also mean to strongly criticize or attack verbally in informal contexts.
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| pound |
Refers to hitting something heavily and repeatedly, often with dust or noise associated. Can also mean a strong heart beating.
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| beat |
Often used in contexts involving rhythmic hitting, or striking something repeatedly. It can also mean defeating someone in a game or competition.
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| pummel |
Specifically means to hit someone or something with your fists repeatedly, usually with the intent to cause harm. This has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He hammered the nail into the wall.
- She hammered the point home during the presentation.
- The rain hammered against the windows.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'hammer'
The word 'hammer' originated from Old English 'hamor', which is derived from Proto-Germanic 'hamaraz'. It has been used as a tool for shaping, breaking, and driving objects for centuries. The symbolic use of a hammer in judicial settings dates back to ancient times, signifying authority and order. Over time, 'hammer' has become a versatile word with both literal and metaphorical meanings.
See also: hammered.