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Phillips head

American  

noun

  1. a screw head having two partial slots crossed at right angles, driven by a special screwdriver Phillips screwdriver.


Other Word Forms

  • Phillips-head adjective

Etymology

Origin of Phillips head

First recorded in 1930–35; after trademark Phillips Screws

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Adam Phillips, head of investments at EP Wealth, said his firm’s investment committee has been discussing allocating more money to foreign stocks.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 18, 2026

Paula Phillips, head teacher of East Wichel Primary School in Swindon, said the school made the decision to change to an active uniform a few years ago.

From BBC • Jun. 12, 2025

But the SEALs and the drone are just tools — the flat head or Phillips head screwdriver at the end of the targeting system.

From New York Times • May 27, 2022

The RX 6800’s backplate, with exposed Phillips head screws.

From The Verge • Nov. 18, 2020

“The power is there, the problem is: Is the will there?” said Kathryn Phillips, head of the Sierra Club California.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 12, 2019