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Sawhorse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sawhorse

[ˈsɔːhɔːs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

woodworking

A sawhorse is a frame with four legs used to support a piece of wood being sawn. It typically consists of a horizontal beam with folding legs at each end.

Synonyms

buck, horse, trestle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sawhorse

Commonly used in construction and woodworking to support a piece of wood or other material that needs to be cut or worked on.

  • He placed the plank on the sawhorse before starting to saw
  • The carpenter arranged the sawhorses and began his project
horse

While 'horse' can refer to the animal, in the context of construction, it is a short form of 'sawhorse'. It is also used to describe strong and supportive structures.

  • He set up the horse for the cutting project
  • Keep the wood steady on the horse while you work
trestle

Often used in the context of bridges or tables, a trestle is a framework consisting of a horizontal beam supported by two pairs of sloping legs, providing support or elevation.

  • They constructed a trestle to support the new bridge
  • The table was reinforced with a sturdy trestle
buck

In carpentry, a buck is a frame or stand, often used to support sheets of plywood or other materials, but it also has other meanings outside of this context. In this context, it's less commonly used than 'sawhorse'.

  • They set up the bucks to hold the large board
  • The workers used a buck to stabilize the material

Examples of usage

  • The carpenter placed the piece of plywood on the sawhorse before cutting it.
  • I need to build a sturdy sawhorse for my woodworking projects.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Construction Tools

  • Commonly used in woodworking and construction, this tool provides stability and support for various cutting tasks.
  • The design allows for easy mobility, and some modern versions are collapsible, saving space when not in use.

Craftsmanship

  • Carpenters and DIY enthusiasts often use them to ensure precise cuts, highlighting their importance in accurate woodworking.
  • They can also be used for other tasks, like supporting materials for painting or glueing, showcasing versatility.

Cultural References

  • In various art and literature, objects like sawhorses symbolize hard work and manual labor, often depicted in scenes of craftsmanship.
  • In some communities, sawhorses may be associated with traditional craftsmanship fairs where woodworkers display their skills.

Technology and Design

  • Innovative designs have emerged, including ones with adjustable heights and built-in storage for tools.
  • Some modern sawhorses are made from high-strength materials like plastic or aluminum, increasing durability and safety.

Origin of 'sawhorse'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'sawhorse' combines 'saw' and 'horse', the latter referring to its supportive function rather than the animal.
  • The word has been used in English since at least the 15th century, indicating its long-standing utility in woodworking.

The term 'sawhorse' originated in the 17th century and is a compound word formed from 'saw' and 'horse'. The 'horse' part of the word refers to the frame's resemblance to a four-legged animal. Sawhorses have been used for centuries by woodworkers and carpenters to support wood while cutting or working on it.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,825, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.