monkey wrench
Definition
Noun: 1. A type of adjustable wrench: A hand tool with one fixed jaw and one adjustable jaw, used for gripping and turning nuts, bolts, or pipes of various sizes. It is designed to be adjusted by turning a screw mechanism.
Usage
The term "monkey wrench" specifically refers to the tool itself. It is a countable noun. * You need a monkey wrench to loosen that large, rusty bolt. * The plumber took a monkey wrench from his toolbox. * He tightened the pipe fitting with an adjustable monkey wrench.
Advanced Usage
- "To throw a monkey wrench into (something)": This is a common idiomatic expression meaning to cause a problem that stops or disrupts a plan or process.
- The sudden rainstorm threw a monkey wrench into our picnic plans.
- The budget cuts threw a monkey wrench in the development of the new product.
Variants and Related Words
- Adjustable wrench / adjustable spanner: These are more general terms that can be synonymous with "monkey wrench," though some technical distinctions exist in specific trades.
- Pipe wrench: A different, heavier type of adjustable wrench with serrated jaws designed specifically for turning pipes.
Synonyms
- Adjustable spanner
- Shifting spanner
Related Idioms
- Throw a (monkey) wrench in the works / into the gears: This has the same meaning as "throw a monkey wrench into (something)"—to cause a disruption or failure.
- The last-minute legal issue threw a wrench in the works of the merger deal.
Noun
-
adjustable wrench that has one fixed and one adjustable jaw
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