awl

/ɔ:l/

Thân thiện

A shoemaker uses an awl to punch holes in a leather sole.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A pointed hand tool: An awl is a small, pointed tool used for piercing holes in materials like leather, wood, or other surfaces by hand pressure or light tapping.
   • A tool for marking: It can also be used to make small marks or guide holes on a surface before drilling or sewing.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The cobbler used an awl to make holes for the leather laces.
  • Before drilling, she made a small pilot hole with an awl to ensure accuracy.

Advanced Usage

• "To work with an awl": To use this specific tool in a craft or task.
  • Bookbinders often work with an awl to prepare pages for stitching.

Variants and Related Words

• Bodkin (n): A similar blunt needle or pointed tool, often used for threading or piercing.
• Pricker (n): Another name for a small, pointed tool, similar to an awl.
• Stiletto (n): In a tool context, a very slender, pointed awl.

Synonyms

• Piercer: A tool for making holes.
• Punch: A tool for creating holes, though often used with a hammer.

Related Phrases

• Awl point: Refers to the sharp tip of the tool.
  • Be careful; the awl point is very sharp.

Idioms

Học thuật

Noun

1. a pointed tool for marking surfaces or for punching small holes