ratchet screwdriver
Noun: A ratchet screwdriver is a hand tool used for turning screws. Its defining mechanism is a ratchet, which allows the blade to turn in only one direction. This is combined with a spiral mechanism inside the handle; applying downward pressure on the handle causes the blade to rotate, enabling rapid driving or removal of screws.
A ratchet screwdriver is used for tasks requiring the fast insertion or removal of many screws, such as in assembly work, furniture building, or electrical projects. The ratchet mechanism prevents the need to reposition the user's grip on the handle after each turn.
- Noun:
- He used a ratchet screwdriver to assemble the bookshelf quickly.
- For repetitive tasks, a ratchet screwdriver is more efficient than a standard one.
- Technical Context: In mechanical and trade discussions, the term specifies the tool's dual-action mechanism (ratchet and spiral drive), distinguishing it from powered screwdrivers or manual ones without these features.
- Ratchet: (Noun) A device consisting of a bar or wheel with a set of angled teeth, allowing motion in only one direction.
- Screwdriver: (Noun) A tool with a shaped tip that fits into the head of a screw to turn it.
- Spiral ratchet screwdriver: A more descriptive, though less common, full name for the same tool.
- Spiral ratchet driver
- Push screwdriver (informal, describes the action)
This is a compound noun. The core word is "screwdriver," modified by "ratchet" to specify the type. The definition describes the complete, specific tool.
- a screwdriver with a ratchet (so the blade turns in only one direction) and a spiral in the handle (so the blade rotates) with downward pressure on the handle