try square

American  

noun

1. a device for testing the squareness of carpentry work or the like, or for laying out right angles, consisting of a pair of straightedges fixed at right angles to one another.

---

try square British  

noun

1. a device for testing or laying out right angles, usually consisting of a metal blade fixed at right angles to a wooden handle

---

Etymology

Origin of try square

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

Then glue in each plug, using the try square to make sure that they project at right angles.

From Hand-Craft The Most Reliable Basis of Technical Education in Schools and Classes by Sutcliffe, John D.

Gauging.—After squaring all the shoulder lines round the timber with the knife and try square, the mortise gauge should be set so as to strike the two gauge lines marked G, Figs.

From Woodwork Joints How they are Set Out, How Made and Where Used. by Fairham, William

Transfer these lines down the edges by the aid of the try square.

From The Library of Work and Play: Gardening and Farming. by Shaw, Ellen Eddy

The T-Square is another modification of the try square, its principal use being for draughting purposes.

From Carpentry for Boys In a Simple Language, Including Chapters on Drawing, Laying Out Work, Designing and Architecture With 250 Original Illustrations by Zerbe, James Slough

With the try square repeat the lines of this sketch on both sides of each.

From Hand-Craft The Most Reliable Basis of Technical Education in Schools and Classes by Sutcliffe, John D.