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Sledgehammer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sledgehammer

[ˈslɛdʒˌhæmər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

construction tool

A sledgehammer is a large, heavy hammer used for tasks such as breaking up concrete or driving in stakes. It typically has a long handle and a large, flat metal head.

Synonyms

demolition hammer, maul, maul hammer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sledgehammer

Used for heavy-duty tasks such as breaking concrete, driving stakes, or demolition work. It's a large, heavy hammer with a long handle.

  • He used a sledgehammer to break the concrete slab.
  • The workers brought a sledgehammer to demolish the old wall.
maul

Commonly used for splitting wood and heavy-duty striking tasks. It has a heavy head with a wedge shape on one side and a flat face on the other.

  • He grabbed the maul to split the logs for the fireplace.
  • Using a maul makes chopping wood much easier.
maul hammer

Less common and often redundant term, usually referring to a maul or a type of heavy hammer. Used for similar tasks as the maul.

  • He picked up the maul hammer for some serious wood splitting.
  • The maul hammer was essential for the heavy-duty job.
demolition hammer

Specifically designed for breaking up concrete, asphalt, and other tough materials. This term often refers to a power tool used in construction.

  • The demolition hammer made quick work of the old pavement.
  • They rented a demolition hammer to take down the brick wall.

Examples of usage

  • The construction worker used a sledgehammer to break up the old concrete.
  • He swung the sledgehammer with all his strength to drive the stake into the ground.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Usage

  • Sledgehammers have been used since at least the Middle Ages for construction and demolition of buildings.
  • During the Industrial Revolution, these tools became essential for workers as factories expanded and needed heavy machinery.
  • Sledgehammers were crucial for mining activities, especially for breaking rock to extract valuable minerals.

Pop Culture

  • Sledgehammers appear in movies like 'Die Hard' and 'The Blues Brothers', representing power and chaotic action.
  • The phrase 'sledgehammer approach' is often used to describe methods that are forceful and blunt, derived from the tool’s power.
  • In music, 'sledgehammer' was famously used by Peter Gabriel in a song metaphorically demonstrating impact and change.

Engineering and Construction

  • In construction, this tool is vital for breaking down concrete structures and facilitating renovations.
  • Sledgehammers are commonly used in demolition, capable of delivering a massive force to break tough materials.
  • Specialized sledgehammers exist for specific tasks, such as those with rubber heads to prevent damage to surfaces.

Psychology

  • The concept of using a sledgehammer metaphorically applies to decision-making processes, where one might favor aggressive solutions.
  • This tool symbolizes brute force in psychology, illustrating how sometimes direct and aggressive methods can overshadow subtler strategies.
  • In discussions of conflict resolution, a 'sledgehammer tactic' often indicates an overly forceful approach that may not be suitable for delicate situations.

Origin of 'sledgehammer'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sledge' comes from the Old English 'slycan,' which means to slide, giving a sense of weight and force.
  • The 'hammer' part of the word comes from Germanic roots, reflecting tools used since the Stone Age for crafting.
  • Both parts of the word have roots in ancient languages, indicating how long people have used heavy tools.

The word 'sledgehammer' originated from the combination of two words: 'sledge' and 'hammer'. 'Sledge' comes from Old English 'slege', meaning 'heavy hammer'. 'Hammer' has roots in Old English 'hamor', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'hamaraz'. The sledgehammer has been a fundamental tool in construction and demolition for centuries, evolving over time to become the heavy-duty tool we know today.

See also: sledge, sledges.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,305 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.