Definition

Noun: A type of adjustable wrench characterized by a V-shaped jaw with serrations (teeth) on one side. Its design is said to resemble the open jaws of an alligator.

Usage

This is a specific, technical term for a tool. It is used when discussing tools, mechanical work, or historical equipment. - The mechanic reached for an alligator wrench to grip the oddly shaped pipe. - In his antique tool collection, he had a rusty but functional alligator wrench.

Advanced Usage

• The alligator wrench is considered an older style of wrench, largely replaced by more modern adjustable wrenches and pipe wrenches.
• It is particularly associated with early plumbing, pipefitting, and railroad maintenance work.

Variants and Related Words

• Wrench (n): A general term for a hand tool used to provide grip and turn objects like nuts, bolts, or pipes.
• Pipe wrench (n): A modern, heavy-duty wrench with adjustable, toothed jaws for gripping and turning pipes.
• Adjustable wrench (n): A wrench with a jaw that can be adjusted to fit different sizes of nuts or bolts.

Synonyms

• Serrated-jaw wrench (This is a descriptive synonym highlighting its key feature).

Notes

This is a compound noun where "alligator" functions as a modifier describing the type of "wrench." The name is derived from the tool's visual resemblance to an alligator's open mouth.

Noun

1. a wrench with a v-shaped jaw and serrations on one side (resembles the open jaws of an alligator)