ice-pick

A bartender uses an ice-pick to break a large block of ice.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A tool for breaking ice: An "ice-pick" is a hand tool with a sharp, pointed metal spike and a handle, used to break or chip ice into smaller pieces.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • He used an ice-pick to chip away at the large block of ice. (A sharp tool for breaking ice.)
  • The bartender grabbed an ice-pick to prepare crushed ice for the cocktails. (A tool for creating smaller ice pieces.)

Advanced Usage

• "ice-pick headache": A colloquial term for a sudden, sharp, stabbing headache that feels like being struck with an ice-pick.
  • She experienced an ice-pick headache that lasted only a few seconds. (A brief, intense headache.)

Variants and Related Words

• Ice pick (n) (alternative spelling): The same tool, often written as two words.
  • He kept an ice pick in the kitchen drawer for breaking up frozen blocks. (A tool for ice.)

Synonyms

• Ice chipper: A tool designed for breaking ice.
• Ice spade: A broader tool for ice, but similar in function.

Related Idioms

• (As) cold as an ice-pick: Extremely cold; harshly cold.
  • The wind was as cold as an ice-pick, cutting through his coat. (Very cold and sharp.)