Definition

Noun: A pipe wrench is a type of adjustable hand tool designed specifically to grip, turn, and hold cylindrical objects, most commonly pipes and pipe fittings. Its defining feature is two serrated (toothed) jaws, one of which is adjustable, allowing the tool to be securely fastened onto pipes of various diameters.

Usage

The pipe wrench is used primarily in plumbing, construction, and maintenance work to assemble or disassemble threaded pipes and fittings. It provides a strong, non-slip grip. The user adjusts the movable jaw to fit the pipe's size, then applies force to the handle to turn it.

Examples

• The plumber used a pipe wrench to tighten the new shower pipe.
• You'll need a large pipe wrench to loosen that rusted steel pipe.
• Make sure the pipe wrench is properly adjusted to avoid damaging the pipe's surface.

Advanced Usage

• "Stillson wrench": This is a common alternative name for a pipe wrench, named after its inventor.
  • The old-timer asked for a Stillson wrench, which is just another name for a pipe wrench.
• The serrated jaws can leave marks on softer metals. For finished pipes where marring is a concern, a different tool like a strap wrench is often preferred.

Variants and Related Words

• Wrench (n): The general category of hand tools used for gripping and turning nuts, bolts, or pipes.
• Adjustable wrench (n): A wrench with a movable jaw to fit different sizes, a category which includes the pipe wrench.
• Strap wrench (n): A wrench that uses a flexible strap or chain to grip rounded objects without marring the surface.

Synonyms

• Stillson wrench
• Monkey wrench (Note: While sometimes used interchangeably in casual speech, a traditional monkey wrench has smooth, parallel jaws and is different from a serrated pipe wrench.)

Related Phrases/Idioms

• "To throw a wrench in the works": This common idiom means to cause a problem that stops or delays a process. It references a wrench (tool) being thrown into machinery.
  • The sudden budget cut threw a wrench in the works of our renovation project. (Note: This idiom uses "wrench" in the general sense, not specifically "pipe wrench").

Noun

1. adjustable wrench for gripping and turning a pipe; has two serrated jaws that are adjusted to grip the pipe