Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of adjustable wrench with a smooth, crescent-shaped jaw. Its defining feature is an adjusting screw built into the head, which allows the jaw opening to be precisely widened or narrowed to fit different sizes of hexagonal nuts and bolts.

Usage

• The crescent wrench is a common and versatile hand tool used for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts. It is not a fixed-size wrench, so one tool can be used for many different fasteners. It is typically used for general mechanical work, plumbing, and assembly tasks.

Examples

• Noun:
  • I need a crescent wrench to adjust the bicycle seat.
  • The plumber used a large crescent wrench to tighten the pipe fitting.
  • A good crescent wrench should not slip and round off the corners of a nut.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used generically, but "Crescent" is a trademarked brand name. The more generic technical term is "adjustable wrench" or "adjustable spanner."
  • He reached for an adjustable wrench, often called a crescent wrench.

Variants and Related Words

• Adjustable wrench (n): The general, non-brand-specific term for this type of tool.
• Adjustable spanner (n): The term commonly used in British English.
• Monkey wrench (n): A different, older type of adjustable wrench with jaws that are perpendicular to the handle. It is often confused with a crescent wrench but is a distinct tool.

Synonyms

• Adjustable spanner
• Adjustable wrench

Related Phrases

• To adjust the wrench: To turn the knurled screw to change the jaw opening.
  • First, you must adjust the wrench to fit the nut snugly.

Noun

1. an adjustable wrench designed to fit hexagonal nuts with the adjusting screw built into the head of the wrench