air-hammer

A worker uses an air-hammer to break up a concrete slab.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A power tool that operates using compressed air to deliver repeated, forceful blows. It is commonly used in construction and demolition for breaking up concrete, asphalt, or rock. Also known as a pneumatic hammer or jackhammer.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The construction worker used an air-hammer to break the old pavement. (The tool uses compressed air to pound and shatter hard surfaces.)
  • With the air-hammer, they could quickly demolish the concrete wall. (The tool’s rapid impacts made demolition efficient.)

Advanced Usage

• "to operate an air-hammer": to use the tool for its intended purpose.

  • He learned to operate an air-hammer safely during his training. (He was trained how to handle the pneumatic tool correctly.)

• "air-hammer drill": a variation used for drilling holes into hard materials like stone or metal.

  • The air-hammer drill is essential for installing anchors in concrete. (It combines drilling with percussive force.)

Variants and Related Words

• Air hammer (n): an alternative spelling (often hyphenated or as two words).

  • The air hammer is a standard tool on any heavy construction site. (Same meaning as air-hammer.)

• Pneumatic hammer (n): a synonym emphasizing the use of compressed air (pneumatics).

  • A pneumatic hammer is quieter than an electric one. (It relies on air pressure rather than electricity.)

Synonyms

• Jackhammer: a common term for a portable pneumatic hammer used in demolition.

  • The jackhammer caused a loud noise on the street. (Synonymous with air-hammer in many contexts.)

• Pavement breaker: a specific type of air-hammer designed for breaking road surfaces.

  • The pavement breaker was too heavy for one person to lift. (A specialized air-hammer.)

Related Idioms

Phrasal Verbs