screwdriver

American  

[skroo-drahy-ver] / ˈskruˌdraɪ vər /

noun

1. a hand tool for turning a screw, consisting of a handle attached to a long, narrow shank, usually of metal, which tapers and flattens out to a tip that fits into the slotted head of a screw.

2. a mixed drink made with vodka and orange juice.

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screwdriver British  

/ ˈskruːˌdraɪvə /

noun

1. a tool used for turning screws, usually having a handle of wood, plastic, etc, and a steel shank with a flattened square-cut tip that fits into a slot in the head of the screw

2. an alcoholic beverage consisting of orange juice and vodka

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Etymology

Origin of screwdriver

First recorded in 1770–80; screw + driver

Example Sentences

“If you were a humanoid robot, would you use a screwdriver or invent a new screwdriver?” he asked.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 7, 2026

You placed a screwdriver in my hand, and said, “Rolling!”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 22, 2025

Marks that look like they were made with a screwdriver or crowbar were left behind.

From BBC • Jan. 1, 2025

Getting any product to consumers, whether it's a can of sardines or a screwdriver, requires that supply chains function well.

From Salon • Oct. 2, 2024

“I was thinking,” said Malcolm, “about these screws, right. You know when the slot gets worn away, it’s much harder to undo, because the screwdriver can’t bite?”

From "The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage" by Philip Pullman