Spanner: meaning, definitions and examples

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spanner

 

[ ˈspanər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

tool

A spanner is a tool used to provide grip and mechanical advantage in applying torque to turn objects—usually rotary fasteners, such as nuts and bolts—or keep them from turning.

Synonyms

key, turning tool, wrench

Examples of usage

  • He used a spanner to tighten the bolt.
  • The mechanic reached for a spanner to fix the car.
Context #2 | Noun

UK

In British English, a spanner is a wrench.

Synonyms

key, turning tool, wrench

Examples of usage

  • Can you pass me the spanner to fix this?
  • The plumber always carries a spanner in his tool kit.
Context #3 | Noun

slang

In informal British usage, a spanner is sometimes used as a derogatory term for a foolish or clumsy person.

Synonyms

clumsy person, fool, idiot

Examples of usage

  • Don't be such a spanner!
  • He really dropped the spanner on that project.

Translations

Translations of the word "spanner" in other languages:

🇵🇹 chave inglesa

🇮🇳 पाना

🇩🇪 Schraubenschlüssel

🇮🇩 kunci inggris

🇺🇦 гайковий ключ

🇵🇱 klucz francuski

🇯🇵 スパナ

🇫🇷 clé à molette

🇪🇸 llave inglesa

🇹🇷 İngiliz anahtarı

🇰🇷 스패너

🇸🇦 مفتاح الربط

🇨🇿 klíč

🇸🇰 kľúč

🇨🇳 扳手

🇸🇮 ključ za vijake

🇮🇸 skrúflykill

🇰🇿 бұрауыш

🇬🇪 გასაღები

🇦🇿 açar

🇲🇽 llave inglesa

Word origin

The word 'spanner' originated in the 17th century from the verb 'span,' meaning to stretch or spread out. The tool itself was originally called a 'wrench' in American English. Over time, 'spanner' became the common term for the tool in British English, while 'wrench' remained more prevalent in American English.

See also: span.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,901 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.