Definition

Noun: A hand tool used for turning (driving or removing) screws that have a single straight slot across their head. The tool has a flattened, wedge-shaped metal tip designed to fit precisely into this slot.

Usage

A flat tip screwdriver is used when the fastener has a slotted screw head. * You will need a flat tip screwdriver to tighten the hinge on that old door. * The electrical panel cover is secured with slotted screws, so get the appropriate flat tip screwdriver.

Advanced Usage

• Precision and Fit: Using a flat tip screwdriver that is the correct width and thickness for the screw slot is critical. An ill-fitting driver can slip, damaging the screw head (a condition called "cam-out") or the surrounding material.
• Limitations: This is one of the oldest and simplest screw drive types. Its main disadvantage is the tendency for the tool to slip out of the slot sideways, especially when high torque is applied, making it less suitable for high-torque or automated applications compared to Phillips or Torx drives.

Variants and Related Words

• Slotted screwdriver: A direct synonym for "flat tip screwdriver," named for the slot in the screw it fits.
• Standard screwdriver: A common alternative name, though this term can sometimes ambiguously refer to other common types.
• Flat-head screwdriver: Note: This term is often used interchangeably with "flat tip screwdriver," but it can be ambiguous. Technically, "flat-head" describes the conical shape of the screw head itself, not the tool. However, in common usage, it frequently refers to the tool.

Synonyms

• Slotted screwdriver
• Standard screwdriver (context-dependent)
• Flat-blade screwdriver

Related Phrases/Idioms

• "Right tool for the job": This phrase emphasizes the importance of using a flat tip screwdriver only with slotted screws, not with Phillips, hex, or other types. Using the wrong tool is inefficient and damaging.
  • Don't use a Phillips head on that; you need the right tool for the job—a flat tip screwdriver.

Noun

1. a screwdriver with a flat wedge-shaped tip that fits into a slot in the head of a screw